SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6318

                    As of January 24, 1996

Title:  An act relating to employment of attorneys by county legislative authorities.

Brief Description:  Removing the requirement that a judge must approve the hiring of attorneys by a county legislative authority.

Sponsors:  Senators McCaslin, Morton and Deccio.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Government Operations:  1/25/96.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS

Staff:  Diane Smith (786-7410)

Background:  The state Constitution directs the Legislature to provide for the election of prosecuting attorneys.  Their duties are described in statute.  One of their 14 categories of statutory duties is to be the legal advisor to the board of county commissioners.  The county commissioners have the authority to employ special attorneys to perform duties of the prosecuting attorney if the contract of employment is in writing, for no more than two years' duration and approved by the presiding superior court judge.

Summary of Bill:  The requirement that the presiding superior court judge approve the written contract of employment entered into between the county commissioners and the special attorney is removed.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.