This bill amends and reenacts provisions of Louisiana law regarding the legal representation of the state's sovereign interests by the attorney general. It establishes the attorney general's authority to preserve and defend the state's autonomy and sovereignty in legal matters involving the federal government. The bill outlines the state's sovereign interests, which encompass any situation affecting the rights of the state and its citizens, and grants the attorney general the power to initiate or intervene in lawsuits to protect these interests. Additionally, it mandates that state entities notify the governor and attorney general of any claims or demands from federal agencies, ensuring that the attorney general can intervene in a timely manner.

The bill also introduces specific requirements for consent judgments in federal court, stipulating that no state entity may enter into such agreements without the approval of both the attorney general and the governor if the judgment imposes ongoing obligations or oversight. It clarifies that any agreement exceeding a governmental entity's term of office is considered unenforceable. The provisions of this act apply to pending consent decrees or judgments that impose continuing jurisdiction over state entities, ensuring that the state's interests are adequately protected in ongoing legal matters.

Statutes affected:
HB64 Original:
HB64 Engrossed:
HB64 Reengrossed:
HB64 Enrolled:
HB64 Act :