MO HB255

Requires state agencies to undertake open and competitive bidding when retaining private counsel for fees exceeding $100,000

Mandates legislative review of any legal services contract exceeding $1 million, with proposed contracts filed to the House clerk and referred to appropriate committee

Provides 45-day review period for legislative committee to examine contract and recommend changes, with agency able to proceed if no changes recommended

Caps attorney fees and expenses at $250 per hour for contingent fee arrangements; requires detailed disclosure statements showing hours worked, expenses, and hourly rate calculations

Establishes expedited review procedures when legislature is not in session or when time exigencies require immediate counsel retention