The Contract No. DCCB-2025-F-0003 with Edelson PC Approval and Payment Authorization Emergency Act of 2025 aims to formalize a multi-year contingency fee contract with Edelson PC to assist the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) in investigating and potentially litigating against parties involved in the marketing, selling, and installation of lead water pipes. The contract has a not-to-exceed amount of $85 million and will be effective for five years, with provisions for two additional two-year options. Edelson PC will only receive compensation if the District achieves a monetary recovery, with specific percentages allocated for different stages of recovery. The legislation is presented for Council approval to ensure the OAG can proceed with legal actions regarding lead water pipes, addressing public health risks associated with lead contamination.

The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the contractor, including conducting investigations, preparing legal documents, and managing discovery, while ensuring compliance with professional standards. It specifies requirements for reimbursable costs, insurance coverage, and the need for prior approval for costs exceeding $5,000. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of compliance with local hiring laws and mandates that contractors maintain detailed records for audits. Overall, the legislation seeks to hold accountable those responsible for lead contamination in the District's drinking water infrastructure while establishing a clear framework for legal recourse and recovery.