This bill amends Section 20i of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which governs the contracting process for legal representation by private attorneys for state agencies and officials. Key provisions include the stipulation that the Attorney General cannot cancel approved contracts for legal representation except under specific circumstances such as breach of contract, gross negligence, or other reasons outlined in the contract. Additionally, the bill mandates that agencies must seek approval from the Attorney General for contracts exceeding $20,000 and requires a request for proposals from at least three qualified attorneys for contracts anticipated to exceed $1 million.

The bill also introduces new reporting requirements, including an annual report from the Attorney General detailing the use of contracts with private attorneys, which must include information on new and ongoing contracts, the nature of legal matters, and financial details such as recovery amounts and fees paid. Furthermore, it clarifies that certain provisions do not apply to the Oklahoma Indigent Defense System or to agencies that invest funds on behalf of beneficiaries. The effective date for this legislation is set for November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 74-20i