MO SB172

Creates a "State Legal Expense Fund" consisting of appropriated moneys to pay claims and judgments against the state of Missouri, its agencies, officers, and employees arising from official duties.

Extends fund coverage to specific health care providers (physicians, nurses, dentists, etc.) employed by or contracted with state agencies, health departments, community health centers, and free health clinics, with varying liability caps ranging from $500,000 to $1,000,000 per claimant.

Limits fund payments for state officer or employee claims to economic damages plus up to $350,000 for noneconomic damages, with the fund serving as the exclusive remedy and protecting officers from personal liability for official conduct.

Excludes fund coverage for officers or employees convicted of misdemeanor or felony conduct, and excludes boards of police commissioners established under Chapter 84.

Requires the Attorney General to conduct investigations, defense, and negotiations for covered claims, with certain exceptions for departments of conservation and transportation and public universities, which may use their own legal counsel.