AZ HB2478

Repeals and re-enacts Section 35-212 of Arizona Revised Statutes to clarify the Attorney General's authority to recover illegally paid public monies.

Authorizes the Attorney General to recover illegally paid public monies plus 20 percent of that amount, together with interest and costs including reasonable attorney fees.

Allows recovery actions against persons who received illegal payments, public bodies or officers who ordered or caused the illegal payment, and public officials or employees who ordered or caused the illegal payment.

Adds new authority to pursue recovery against public officials, employees or agents who knowingly use public monies or resources to organize, plan or execute activities that impede or prevent public schools from operating, unless acting in good faith in furtherance of official duties.

Establishes a five-year statute of limitations for actions brought by the Attorney General to recover illegally paid public monies, with exceptions for liability of public officials who disburse funds pursuant to warrants or electronic transfers without knowledge that an illegal payment would result.