S.B. 2520 Summary

• State must defend professionally licensed or certified employees in civil actions when their actions occurred within scope of employment and were not grossly negligent or wanton, provided the employee cooperates with the State's defense.

• Professionally licensed or certified state employees may hire their own attorney at their own expense to defend themselves in civil actions instead of using the State's attorney.

• When the Attorney General declines to defend an employee, the Attorney General must work with the employee to transfer representation to the employee's chosen counsel.

• If amicable transfer of representation cannot be achieved, the Attorney General must file a confidential motion to withdraw at least 30 days before discovery closes, with the motion and all related materials kept confidential.

• Court must conduct a hearing on the motion to withdraw, with attendance limited to court personnel, the Attorney General, the employee, their attorneys, and court-approved individuals.