Bill > HB3347

This bill establishes new rules for political subdivisions, which are local government entities like cities, towns, and counties, when they hire outside lawyers on a "contingent fee" basis, meaning the lawyer only gets paid if they win the case or achieve a favorable outcome. Before a political subdivision can enter into such a contract, its governing body must hold a public meeting and provide detailed information about why the legal services are needed, the qualifications of the chosen lawyer, any potential conflicts of interest, and why the subdivision's own lawyers or hourly rate contracts aren't suitable. The bill also requires the political subdivision to make a written finding that there's a substantial need for the services, that their own staff can't handle it, and that an hourly rate contract isn't feasible. Furthermore, any contingent fee contract must ensure the political subdivision retains control over the case and has the final say on any settlement, and the lawyer's fee cannot exceed certain limits. Crucially, before the contract is effective, the political subdivision must submit it to the Attorney General for approval, who can reject it if the legal matter is already being handled by the state, is more appropriately a state matter, or if the contract violates professional conduct rules for lawyers. If the Attorney General doesn't act within 45 days, the contract is considered approved. The bill also includes a provision that the state "preempts," or takes over, the regulation of alcoholic beverage sales concerning container size, volume, alcohol content, and purchase limits, making any local laws on these specific matters void.

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https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB3347&year=2026&code=R