S.B. 1423 Summary

• Establishes the Office of the Public Advocate within the Department of the Attorney General, headed by a public advocate nominated by the governor and confirmed by the senate with a term coterminous with the governor.

• Enumerates 13 public rights relating to legislative conduct, including fair treatment of legislators regardless of seniority or party, protection from retaliation for public testimony, access to bill drafts and written testimony within 24 hours, and transparent decision-making in committees.

• Grants the public advocate jurisdiction to investigate complaints alleging violations of the enumerated rights, with powers to issue subpoenas, compel testimony and document production, and hold private hearings.

• Requires the public advocate to maintain confidentiality of complainants and witnesses, consult with persons before issuing critical opinions (except in cases of potential breach of duty or misconduct), and report findings to the presiding officer of the appropriate legislative chamber.

• Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to be expended by the Department of the Attorney General; effective date July 1, 2023.