SB297 Alabama 2022 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Jim McClendon

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2022

Title

State government, authority of the Attorney General to enter into settlement agreements, Sec. 36-15-12 am'd.

Summary

The bill requires state departments to obtain the Attorney General's approval before entering settlements and restricts confidentiality terms in settlements.

What This Bill Does

It clarifies that the Attorney General has the authority to act on behalf of the state in civil actions. No state department or agency may enter into a settlement—including prelitigation settlements, separation agreements, employment termination agreements, or releases—without AG approval. A settlement cannot include confidentiality, nondisclosure, or nondisparagement provisions unless the Attorney General approves. The bill reinforces the AG's power to represent and pursue settlement and court actions for the state.

Who It Affects

• State departments, boards, bureaus, commissions, committees, authorities, and offices in Alabama: cannot enter into settlements without prior approval of the Attorney General.
• The Office of the Attorney General: gains explicit authority to approve or reject settlements and any confidentiality-related terms in settlements.

Key Provisions

• Explicitly require prior Attorney General approval for any settlement entered into by a state department or similar entity (including prelitigation settlements, separation agreements, employment termination agreements, or releases).
• Prohibit including confidentiality, nondisclosure, or nondisparagement provisions in a settlement without prior approval by the Attorney General.
• Affirm that the Attorney General is authorized to institute and prosecute civil actions in the state's name.
• Take effect immediately upon the governor's signature (becomes law right away).

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Attorney General