attorney general; nuisance action; damages

HB 2167 holds Arizona's Attorney General liable for damages if they file a public nuisance lawsuit that is dismissed or found without merit, provided the AG knew or should have known the case lacked legal or factual basis and publicized the filing. If liable, the AG must pay the defendant's attorney fees, litigation costs, and a civil penalty equal to three times the damages suffered - such as lost sales or profits for businesses. The damages and penalties would be paid from the Attorney General's general operating fund, not taxpayer money. This bill directly affects the Attorney General's office and individuals or businesses targeted by potentially unfounded nuisance lawsuits.