The bill amends section 109.02 of the Revised Code and enacts a new section, 9.243, which establishes a requirement for state agencies to reimburse the Attorney General for legal representation in contract disputes. The new section defines key terms such as "fair market rate for legal services," "recipient," and "state agency." It stipulates that if a state agency is involved in legal action related to a contract dispute and is represented by the Attorney General, it must reimburse the Attorney General at a fair market rate for the legal services provided. Additionally, the Attorney General has the discretion to refuse representation to any state agency with an outstanding reimbursement balance unless mandated by the governor or general assembly.

Furthermore, the bill allows the Attorney General to waive the reimbursement requirement and any outstanding balances at their discretion. The existing language in section 109.02 is modified to reflect that the Attorney General will represent the state in legal matters, subject to the new provisions outlined in section 9.243. The bill ultimately aims to clarify the financial responsibilities of state agencies regarding legal representation and ensure that the Attorney General is compensated for their services.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 109.02