OK
Oklahoma Senate Bill SB266

Oklahoma 2025 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB266

Introduced
2/3/25  

Caption

State government; providing for funds from certain settlements to be retained by the Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority. Effective date.

Impact

The implementation of SB266 is expected to enhance oversight and control over legal agreements made by state agencies. By requiring approval from the Attorney General for certain legal contracts, particularly when costs exceed defined thresholds, the bill aims to ensure accountability and prudent use of state resources. Additionally, the public disclosure of executed contracts and payments related to contingency fees is intended to promote transparency, ensuring that taxpayers are informed of how public funds are spent on legal services.

Summary

Senate Bill 266, as introduced in the 2025 legislative session, amends sections of Oklahoma statutes pertaining to legal representation for state entities, specifically focusing on the provisions around contingency fee contracts. The bill allows for certain funds from legal settlements to be retained by the Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority and mandates electronic submissions of specific reports regarding legal contracts and settlements. This update is designed to facilitate more efficient legal representation processes and improve transparency regarding state legal expenses.

Contention

There may be points of contention related to the extent of oversight imposed by this bill. Proponents argue that stricter regulations on contingency fee contracts will protect state interests and taxpayers by ensuring that only necessary and justifiable legal expenses are incurred. Conversely, opponents might contend that such oversight could inhibit the flexibility of state agencies in effectively addressing urgent legal matters, potentially leading to delays in obtaining much-needed legal assistance. The debate surrounding this bill reflects broader discussions on the balance between regulation and operational efficiency in state government.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB704

Oklahoma State University Medical Authority; modifying membership of the Authority; modifying powers and duties of the Authority and the Oklahoma State University Medical Trust. Effective date.

OK SB704

Oklahoma State University Medical Authority; modifying membership of the Authority; modifying powers and duties of the Authority and the Oklahoma State University Medical Trust. Effective date.

OK HB2160

Oklahoma State University Medical Authority; members; qualifications; powers and duties; Oklahoma State University Medical Trust; increasing certain asset limit; effective date.

OK HB2160

Oklahoma State University Medical Authority; members; qualifications; powers and duties; Oklahoma State University Medical Trust; increasing certain asset limit; effective date.

OK HB2262

Turnpikes; modifying certain powers and duties of the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; effective date.

OK HB2262

Turnpikes; modifying certain powers and duties of the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; effective date.

OK HB3151

Turnpikes; Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; intent and powers; effective date.

OK SB940

State government; modifying duties of the Attorney General; allowing for investigation of foreign entities for certain purchases near military installations. Effective date.

OK SB940

State government; modifying duties of the Attorney General; allowing for investigation of foreign entities for certain purchases near military installations. Effective date.

OK HB3129

State government; Oklahoma Central Purchasing Act; modifying powers and duties of Director; prohibiting certain contracts; modifying sole source acquisition; effective date.

Similar Bills

OK HB2600

Counties and county officers; confidential communications with legal counsel; conflict of interest; district attorney; representation; emergency.

OK SB1080

Counties and county officers; allowing confidential communications with legal counsel. Emergency.

OK SB1080

Counties and county officers; allowing confidential communications with legal counsel. Emergency.

OK HB3547

State government; Attorney General; modifying reporting on certain contracts to fiscal year; adding information to report; effective date.

OK SB984

Legal representation; modifying requirements for contracting for certain legal representation. Effective date.

OK HB1685

Attorney General; private attorney contracts; effective date.

OK HB3941

State government; legal representation of agencies or officials of the executive branch; allow contracts with law firms; fees; records; information submitted to the Attorney General; effective date.

OK HB2085

State government; legal representation of agency; prohibiting certain attorneys from being voting members of boards or commissions; effective date.