MO HB1718

Amends Section 537.610, RSMo to clarify that "purchase" of liability insurance by political subdivisions means only direct acquisition from an insurance company, excluding indirect arrangements such as requiring additional insured coverage under another party's policy.

Maintains existing liability caps for the state and political subdivisions: $2 million maximum for all claims arising from a single occurrence and $300,000 maximum per person per accident or occurrence.

Prohibits punitive or exemplary damages in any award against a public entity under sections 537.600 to 537.650.

Requires annual adjustment of liability caps on January 1st based on the Implicit Price Deflator for Personal Consumption Expenditures, with the applicable cap determined by the date of the accident or occurrence.

Subjects claims against public entities to penalties under Supreme Court Rule 55.03 for frivolous filings.