The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) announced today that Utah attorney general candidate Rudy Bautista (D) has signed ATRA’s 2024 Attorney General Transparency Code pledge. This move is seen as a commitment to transparency and accountability should he be elected.
“By signing this pledge, Rudy Bautista has shown Utah voters that he is serious about promoting open and accountable government,” said Tiger Joyce, ATRA president. “We commend Mr. Bautista for embracing these good-government principles.”
ATRA invited all Utah attorney general candidates to complete the 2024 AG candidate questionnaire. As of now, Republican candidate Derek Brown has not responded to ATRA’s request. The Association encourages all candidates to participate in the questionnaire.
ATRA asserts that attorneys general need discretion and independence to enforce state law without influence from parties with private interests in litigation outcomes.
“In every instance, a state’s attorney general should seek to provide the highest quality services at the best value for hardworking taxpayers when considering whether to contract with outside counsel,” Joyce stated. “Signing ATRA’s transparency code gives hope that transparency and accountability will be a priority in the Office of the Attorney General in Utah should Bautista be elected.”
ATRA’s Attorney General Transparency Code outlines model policies for governing the use of outside counsel by state attorneys general. The organization is committed to working with state and local leaders to improve the civil justice system by reducing excessive litigation and increasing government transparency, aiming to enhance economic development and job creation. Attorneys general play a critical role as states’ chief law enforcement officers in creating a fairer system.
“We hope to work with Utah’s next attorney general to strengthen transparency and accountability in the state,” Joyce added.
Bautista's completed questionnaire is available for public viewing.
Republican candidate Derek Brown has been urged by ATRA to sign the pledge as well.
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