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. It establishes that state officers and departments cannot employ legal counsel without a written appointment from the attorney general. Additionally, specific entities such as the workforce safety and insurance, department of transportation, and ethics commission are permitted to employ their own attorneys, who must be appointed as special assistant attorneys general by the attorney general.

Significantly, the bill introduces provisions that prevent the attorney general from refusing to appoint or revoking the appointment of special assistant attorneys general employed by certain state officials, including the governor and state auditor, unless there is good cause. The definition of good cause is provided, focusing on the attorney's experience, competence, or ethical standards. The bill also outlines the powers of special assistant attorneys general, which are equivalent to those of regular assistant attorneys general, and stipulates that any legal services rendered may require payment to the attorney general, with funds deposited into the attorney general's operating fund.

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