Bill > SB980

This bill modifies provisions related to state funds compensating certain injured persons by making several key changes to existing law. The bill updates definitions and eligibility requirements for compensation funds, specifically adding citizenship and immigration status as criteria for victims seeking compensation. For the Tort Victims' Compensation Fund, the bill introduces a new requirement that the department of labor and industrial relations must verify claimants' eligibility before authorizing payments. For the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund, the bill similarly requires the department of public safety to verify claimants' eligibility and deny claims that do not meet the requirements. The bill also adjusts administrative procedures for claims, including limiting attorney's fees to 10-15% of awarded compensation, and adds provisions specifying that claimants must be United States citizens, lawful permanent residents, or hold a valid visa. Additionally, the bill modifies how funds are collected, distributed, and managed, including provisions for pro-rata payments when fund resources are insufficient and requirements for reporting and auditing fund activities. These changes aim to provide more structured and controlled compensation processes for victims while ensuring that only eligible individuals receive funds.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=624