Proposal states limits for claims against Missouri public bodies

The proposed replacement section states limits of $5 million for claims from one event and $2 million for one person. The limits apply to certain tort claims against Missouri, its political subdivisions, and public entities. The limits exclude claims covered by Missouri workers’ compensation law. The state and local governments’ immunity is waived only up to the amount and purposes covered by insurance or an adopted self-insurance plan.

The proposed replacement section says the limits are adjusted each year based on a federal price measure. The adjustment applies to the liability limits in this section. The director of the Department of Commerce and Insurance calculates the updated limits and sends them for publication in the Missouri Register. Each adjustment takes effect on January 1.

The proposed replacement section bars punitive or exemplary damages in awards on covered claims against public entities. The bar applies to awards on claims against public entities covered by sections 537.600 to 537.650.