SAN ANTONIO - More Texas counties are joining the fight against opioid manufacturers and distributors by seeking their own representation.
- Texas counties hiring law firms in opiod fight
- Have until Sept. 1 to choose own firm
- New law gives AG final say on which firms are approved
Hays County has hired Phipps Deacon Purnell PLLC to represent their interests in court. The same firm is representing Bexar and Bastrop Counties.
The law firm has been active in working with counties to get on board. However, counties won't have the final say in which law firms they hire on their own for much longer. Last week, Gov. Greg Abbott signed legislation that essentially gives the attorney general the final say in which firms are approved on a contingency basis.
Counties have until September 1 before the bill becomes law.
The reasoning behind the legislation is to push for more transparency when hiring private attorneys. However, for the firm working with the counties, they say it's about helping the people.
"It is an epidemic hitting every corner of our community and counties are stepping up to make sure that their taxpayers are made whole," said attorney T.J. Mayes.
Mayes said the firm gave a presentation to Guadulpe County Commissioners on Tuesday. At this point they are also considering a lawsuit.