A. In the exercise of any of its powers or duties, the board shall act with independent legal advice. The manner in which such advice is provided shall be determined by the board, but from among one of the following:

Ask a legal question, get an answer ASAP!
Click here to chat with a lawyer about your rights.

(1)     the office of the attorney general;

(2)     independent counsel hired by the board, whether full- or part-time; or

(3)     another state agency whose function is sufficiently distinct from the department of environment to assure independent, impartial advice.

B. Notwithstanding the provisions of Subsection A of this section, attorneys from the department may act for the board in lawsuits filed against or on behalf of the board, and the attorney general may, at the request of the board, file and defend lawsuits on behalf of the board.