Bill > HB1685

This bill amends Oklahoma state law regarding how state agencies can contract with private attorneys for legal representation, primarily focusing on new restrictions and transparency requirements. The bill prohibits the Attorney General from cancelling an already approved contract with a private attorney or law firm except in specific circumstances, such as breach of contract or gross negligence. It maintains existing provisions that require agencies to select private attorneys from a list maintained by the Attorney General, with strict guidelines on contingency fees (capped at a maximum of 50 million dollars), and mandates extensive public disclosure and reporting requirements. The bill requires agencies to provide detailed information about proposed legal representation contracts to the Attorney General, including the nature of representation, anticipated costs, and justification for hiring external counsel. Furthermore, it requires contracts to include standard clauses ensuring government attorneys retain control over the case, and mandates that executed contracts and contingency fee payments be posted publicly on the Attorney General's website. The legislation aims to increase transparency, control legal costs, and ensure state agencies are obtaining competent and economical legal representation. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1685&Session=2600