SB134 - Transparency in Private Attorney Contracts Act

• Requires state agencies to make written determinations prior to entering contingency fee contracts, documenting that such arrangements are cost-effective and in the public interest based on specific statutory factors.

• Establishes tiered fee caps for contingency contracts: 25% on recoveries up to $10 million, declining to 1% on recoveries exceeding $50 million, with all fees exclusive of expenses.

• Mandates government attorney control over litigation including complete case direction, veto power over private attorney decisions, and exclusive settlement authority remaining with the state.

• Requires private attorneys to maintain detailed records for four years after contract expiration and make them available for inspection by the Governor, Attorney General, or contracting agency.

• Directs the Attorney General to develop a standard contract addendum for all contingency fee cases and requires posting of executed contracts and written determinations online per Section 41-4-65(b).