Local Lawsuits, Statewide Effects: Can Attorneys General Halt Encroachments on their Authority?

Eager to make statewide policy and reap financial rewards, local governments have become players in novel litigation against product manufacturers. These cities and counties, along with their contingent-fee counsel, claim the public mantle, but state laws and constitutions reserve litigation authority for attorneys general. Our panelists discuss the extent of this growing conflict, its downside for States and its residents, and potential legislative and litigation solutions available to attorneys general and legislatures. Panelists: Joseph Sciarrotta - Chief Deputy Attorney General, State of Kansas Rob McKenna - Partner, Orrick Andy Cook - Partner, Orrick #attorneygeneral #litigation #pfas #climatechange #plastics #kansas About WLF: Washington Legal Foundation (WLF) is the nation’s premier public-interest law firm and policy center. Our mission is to preserve and defend America’s free-enterprise system by litigating, educating, and advocating for free-market principles, a limited and accountable government, individual and business civil liberties, and the rule of law. For more information, please visit https://www.wlf.org/. Support Our Work: As an independent, nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization, WLF relies on the charitable support of individuals, corporations, and foundations to carry out its singular mission. Our publications, educational programming, and litigation efforts are all made possible by supporters like you. Donate today to help us keep free enterprise free. Visit https://www.wlf.org/donate/.