SB1423 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's term.

• Creates a bill of rights for the public relating to legislature operations, including rights to fair treatment during hearings, access to written testimony within 24 hours, sufficient time for members to review bills before voting, and transparent decision-making.

• Grants the public advocate jurisdiction to investigate complaints alleging violations of the enumerated public rights, with power to compel testimony and document production through subpoena.

• Requires the public advocate to maintain confidentiality of complaints and witnesses, conduct investigations, and report findings to the presiding officer of the appropriate legislative chamber and the complainant.

• Authorizes appropriation of funds for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to implement the office, with the act taking effect July 1, 2023.