A.G. Has Own Idea for ‘Sunshine’ Laws
The battle over new restrictions for the Attorney General’s office is just beginning. The state Senate wants to require the Attorney General to bid out legal services, cap fees that outside attorneys can earn at one million dollars, and any contract over $500,000 should be reviewed.
“There is a misperception that sunshine doesn’t currently exist,” said Hood. “Outside counsel contracts have always been public records. Still, recognizing the need for reform in this area, I have introduced my own bill.”
Hood’s proposal looks this way:
He wants a seven-day notice of proposed suits, contracted firm or attorney should maintain reports and records, contracts will be files with the Secretary of State’s office, and upon conclusion of work all expense reports and records will be filed with the Secretary of State’s office.
Representative Phillip Gunn (R-Clinton) worked to pass the sunshine legislation last year in the House. He believes this bill makes good sense.
“I can’t for the life of me see why anyone would oppose this,” Gunn said. “This is good government; it doesn’t matter who the Attorney General is, whether he be Democrat or Republican. It requires him and the attorneys he hired to show how they’re spending their time, what they’re doing to earn their fees.”
WLBT
1/29/8
