The bill H. 5741 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Article 29 to Title 1, Chapter 1, which prohibits law firms that employ members of the General Assembly or their immediate family members from entering into litigation retention agreements with public entities in the state. This prohibition is effective during the member's tenure and extends for one year after they leave office. The bill also stipulates that covered law firms cannot receive any form of compensation from such agreements, with the exception of reimbursement for reasonable costs that were approved prior to the member's election and employment by the law firm.
The bill defines "covered law firm" as any legal entity where a member of the General Assembly or their immediate family is involved in various capacities, including ownership or employment. It also clarifies that "public entity" encompasses a wide range of governmental bodies, including state agencies, local governing bodies, and school districts. The legislation is designed to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure transparency in the relationship between lawmakers and legal firms that engage with public entities. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.