OK SB821

State agencies must conduct a request for proposal process before retaining private lawyers or law firms for legal services exceeding $5,000.00.

Agencies must maintain publicly accessible websites containing the request for proposals, vendor identity, service descriptions, projected and actual payments, and contract award dates for three (3) years.

Contracts exceeding $500,000.00 require Governor review within 30 days, including a written statement justifying private counsel retention, the selection process, and any prior relationships with the firm.

Outside counsel retained on contingency-fee basis must provide a statement at case conclusion detailing hours worked, expenses, and fees; legal fees and expenses are capped at $1,000.00 per hour and will be reduced if disclosure shows a higher rate.

The act does not expand agency authority to enter contracts, does not subject contracts to the Oklahoma Central Purchasing Act, and becomes effective November 1, 2017.