(March 5, 2026) – Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on House Bill 2593, which requires a political subdivision to hold an open meeting to discuss a contingency fee contract for legal services before approving such a contract and mandates the attorney general to approve such contracts. Last month, the bill passed the House 77-46 and had the following conferees:
Proponents:
- Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach suggested an amendment that would strike appeals process language and clarify scope of state enforcement. Attorney General Kobach highlighted gun manufacturer and energy supplier lawsuits that should be under state scope as the need for this legislation.
- Eric Stafford, Kansas Chamber
- Roger Gibboni, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, provided virtual testimony.
Opponents:
- Michael Koss, city attorney for Overland Park
- Blake Shuart, Hutton and Hutton Law Firm
- Shannon Kimball, Kansas Association of School Boards.
- Written opposition was also provided by several organizations.
Neutral:
- John Goodyear, Kansas League of Municipalities.
The committee will meet again next week.