Bill > SB916

This bill modifies provisions related to sovereign immunity, which is a legal doctrine that protects government entities from lawsuits. Specifically, it expands the instances where the state's immunity is waived, meaning the government can be sued for damages. The bill clarifies that the Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT) and its agents, including private contractors, subcontractors, and engineers working on MODOT projects, can be held liable for injuries arising from the design, condition, or maintenance of these projects. This liability applies during specific periods: after a contract is signed but before construction begins, and after construction is completed and accepted by MODOT. However, this waiver of immunity does not apply if the work is dangerously defective, a defect was concealed, MODOT's agent knew of a dangerous condition and didn't disclose it, or the plans were so flawed that an unsafe condition should have been anticipated. The bill also clarifies that contractors cannot be required to indemnify or defend MODOT or its agents before work begins. Additionally, it reiterates existing limits on the amount of damages that can be awarded against public entities, capping coverage at $2 million per occurrence and $300,000 per person, with provisions for annual adjustments based on economic indicators.