The bill, H.B. No. 2460, amends Section 402.024 of the Government Code to expand the attorney general's authority to defend district attorneys and county attorneys in federal court. The heading of the section is updated to include "COUNTY ATTORNEY" and "GRAND JUROR," reflecting the broader scope of individuals eligible for defense. Additionally, a new subsection (c) is added, specifying that the attorney general may provide defense if the district or county attorney is a defendant due to their official position, the lawsuit pertains to the enforcement of a state statute, and the attorney requests the attorney general's assistance.
The changes made by this bill will only apply to court actions filed in federal court on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025. Any actions filed before this date will continue to be governed by the existing law, ensuring that the previous legal framework remains in effect for those cases.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Government Code 402.024 (Government Code 402)
House Committee Report: Government Code 402.024 (Government Code 402)