This bill amends the laws regarding the election, appointment, and contracting of municipal attorneys for cities of the second class and incorporated towns in Arkansas. It allows these municipalities to elect a municipal attorney during the same election as other city officers unless an ordinance specifies that the position will be appointed. Additionally, municipalities that opt not to establish a municipal attorney's office can contract with an attorney for legal representation. The bill specifies that an attorney elected or appointed must reside within the municipal boundaries, while contracted attorneys are not required to do so. The term of office for a municipal attorney, whether elected or appointed, is set at four years.

Furthermore, the bill repeals existing provisions related to city attorneys in mayor-council cities with populations under 10,000 and under 5,000, streamlining the legal framework for municipal attorney appointments and contracts. It also clarifies that cities of the second class and incorporated towns can collaborate with other municipalities to procure legal services. Overall, the bill aims to modernize and simplify the process for municipalities in Arkansas to secure legal representation.

Statutes affected:
HB 1618: 14-42-112(a), 14-42-112(e)
Act 523: 14-42-112(a), 14-42-112(e)