MESSAGES FROM THE GOVERNOR

Senate Substitute for House Bill No. 2228

An Act concerning contingent fee contracts for legal services; relating to contracts entered into for legal services by a political subdivision; requiring an open meeting before a political subdivision may approve such a contract; requiring the attorney general to approve such contract before such contract becomes effective.

Message to the Legislature of the State of Kansas:

As a strong supporter of local control, I believe that decisions around legal services should be handled by the local elected leaders who are on the ground and best know their communities’ needs. I do also believe there are times when the attorney general must work to safeguard the state’s interest in issues that cannot be adequately litigated by a local entity on behalf of the entire state.

There should be additional work on this legislation to develop clearer language around the attorney general’s engagement. Also, the retroactivity language should be removed to eliminate the perception that this bill is targeted at a specific action rather than sound policy. Until those issues are addressed, I cannot sign this legislation.

Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Substitute for House Bill 2228.

Laura Kelly, Governor

Dated April 9, 2025.