KS SB242

Political subdivisions in Kansas must hold an open meeting with public notice before approving any contingent fee contract for legal services, including disclosure of attorney qualifications, relationships with the subdivision, and justification for why hourly rate contracts are not feasible

Governing bodies must make written findings that substantial need exists for the legal services, in-house attorneys cannot adequately perform the work, and hourly rate contracts are not reasonable given the nature of the matter or available funds

Attorney general approval is required before any contingent fee contract becomes effective and enforceable, with a 90-day review period after which contracts are deemed approved if no action is taken

Attorney general may refuse approval if the matter overlaps with state legal actions, would not promote efficient resolution, or violates Kansas attorney professional conduct rules, and may intervene in proceedings to request dismissal of non-compliant contracts

Pre-existing contingent fee contracts entered before July 1, 2025 must be submitted to the attorney general by July 1, 2026 for review; the entire act expires on July 1, 2029