Attorney General Services For Agencies
If enacted, SB385 will significantly streamline the fee-setting process for legal services provided by the Attorney General to various state agencies. By estimating rates that mirror those in existing contracts with the risk management division, the bill aims to foster transparency and consistency in how legal fees are assessed across different government entities. This could lead to more predictable budgeting for agencies relying on legal services, while also establishing a standard practice for cost recovery.
Senate Bill 385, introduced by Pete Campos in the New Mexico Legislature, focuses on revising the methods used by the Attorney General for setting rates concerning the services provided to state agencies. The bill proposes a change in the fee structure whereby the Attorney General is authorized to charge state agencies for legal services rendered in noncriminal cases. This is expected to align the charging mechanisms with current contracts held by the risk management division of the general services department.
While the bill primarily seeks to simplify administrative processes, it may invite scrutiny regarding the potential impact on smaller agencies with limited budgets. There are concerns that changes to the fee structure could disproportionately affect smaller entities that may struggle to absorb increased legal costs. Critics of the bill could argue that it places an additional financial burden on these agencies, which may affect their ability to operate efficiently and fulfill community needs.