Bill > HB2610

This bill modifies provisions related to the State Legal Expense Fund, which is a fund established to cover certain legal claims and judgments against the state of Missouri, its agencies, officers, and employees, as well as specific healthcare providers and attorneys working in certain capacities. The bill expands the types of entities and individuals covered by the fund, notably adding entities that provide foster care case management or residential services under contract or subcontract. It also clarifies and adjusts payment limitations for claims arising from various covered individuals and entities, including healthcare providers offering services without compensation to specific populations or through community health initiatives, and attorneys providing pro bono legal services through non-profit centers or government agencies. The bill also specifies that payments from the fund for claims against state officers or employees will cover economic damages and a limited amount of noneconomic damages, and that the fund serves as the exclusive remedy for such claims, precluding further lawsuits against the individual. Additionally, it addresses the handling of remaining funds in the State Legal Expense Fund at the end of an appropriation period, stating they will not be transferred to general revenue.