HB 1494 Summary

• Enacts the "School District Private Attorney Retention Act" requiring school districts to use a request for proposal (RFP) process before retaining attorneys when fees exceed $5,000

• Mandates school districts maintain and publicly disclose lists of RFP recipients and contract award information on their websites for 120 days after contract award, with contract details accessible for 3 years

• Requires school districts to submit proposed attorney contracts exceeding $100,000 to the Attorney General for review within 30 days, including written justification for reasons for private counsel retention and selection

• Caps attorney fees and expenses at $1,000 per hour for school district legal services and requires contingency-fee disclosures at case conclusion

• Effective date: November 1, 2013