The proposed amendments to section 54-12-08 of the North Dakota Century Code focus on the appointment and authority of assistant and special assistant attorneys general. The bill clarifies that the attorney general may appoint these attorneys after consulting with relevant state departments or agencies, and it establishes that no state officer or agency can employ legal counsel without a written appointment from the attorney general. Additionally, specific state entities, including the ethics commission and various commissioners, are permitted to employ their own attorneys, who must be appointed as special assistant attorneys general by the attorney general. The bill also stipulates that the attorney general cannot refuse to appoint or revoke the appointment of special assistant attorneys general employed by certain state officials unless there is good cause.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the powers of special assistant attorneys general, which are equivalent to those of regular assistant attorneys general, and specifies that appointments can be made with or without compensation. It also mandates that any legal services rendered by these attorneys must be compensated by the respective state entities, with funds deposited into the attorney general's operating fund. The amendments ensure that attorneys representing the state board of higher education have access to necessary records while complying with federal privacy laws. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the appointment process and clarify the roles and responsibilities of attorneys general in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 54-12-08
Adopted by the House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee: 54-12-08
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 54-12-08
Adopted by the Senate State and Local Government Committee: 54-12-08