Governor Crist Signs Legislation to Enhance Transparency in Private Attorney Contracting

~ Requires contracting information be posted online for public review ~

TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today, alongside Attorney General Bill McCollum, signed House Bill 437 to increase transparency and accountability in contracts between private attorneys and the Office of the Attorney General.  This legislation requires pertinent contracting information be posted on the Attorney General’s Web site for public review.

“By giving Floridians increased access to their government, they have the opportunity to hold their government accountable,” said Governor Crist. “I am committed to maintaining the integrity of our competitive procurement process and am grateful to the Attorney General for being an advocate for Florida taxpayers and of government in the sunshine.”

House Bill 437 requires the Attorney General to make a written determination that a private attorney contract entered into by the Office of the Attorney General is in the public’s best interest and cost-effective.  The bill continues to ensure a competitive procurement process and requires contract information, including payment of contingency fees, be posted on the Attorney General’s Web site for public review.  This legislation also sets a maximum contingency fee of $50 million for private attorneys contracting with the Attorney General.  Additionally, an annual report is required to be submitted to the Legislature detailing new contingency fee contracts, as well as ongoing contracts.

“The stories on corruption and scandal that we’ve all read amplified the need to see this policy become law this year,” said Attorney General Bill McCollum. “As Florida’s chief legal officer, I have a responsibility to ensure that this office is insulated from undue influence when entering into contingency fee contracts with private law firms.”

The Governor praised House Bill 437 as another effort to make Florida government more open, transparent and accountable to Floridians.  Bill sponsors Senator John Thrasher and Representative Eric Eisnaugle also joined the Governor for the bill signing ceremony.
CONTACT: GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 488-5394