MESSAGES FROM THE GOVERNOR

House Bill No. 2593

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; requiring the attorney general to submit a report to the legislature regarding contracts that are not approved; providing for the expiration of the section.

Message to the Legislature of the State of Kansas

This legislation takes away the power of local governments to bring suits affecting their constituents if not approved by the Attorney General. Access to the courts should not be conditioned on the Attorney General’s discretion. I reiterate that local governments should oversee decisions like these as they best understand their needs.

Therefore, pursuant to Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution of the State of Kansas, I hereby veto House Bill 2593.

Laura Kelly, Governor

Dated April 8, 2026.