Modifies provisions relating to prosecuting attorneys, including classification as state employees and the transfer of the Prosecuting Attorneys and Circuit Attorneys' Retirement System to the Missouri State Employees' Retirement System
The proposed changes are expected to have far-reaching effects on state laws governing the employment and compensation of prosecuting attorneys. The reclassification as state employees means they will be entitled to comprehensive benefits, which has the potential to attract better talent to these positions and improve job satisfaction and performance. However, with the implementation of these benefits, there could be increased costs associated with the state health care plan and potential adjustments to salaries to align with state standards. Older structures and conditions under current laws will also need to be repealed and replaced with the provisions outlined in SB1189.
Senate Bill 1189 aims to modify provisions relating to prosecuting attorneys in Missouri. One of the primary changes is the reclassification of prosecuting attorneys as state employees, which will allow them to receive benefits under the Missouri consolidated health care plan and other advantages typically available to state workers. Additionally, starting January 1, 2025, all assets from the prosecuting attorneys and circuit attorneys' retirement system will be transferred to the Missouri state employees' retirement system, thereby consolidating the retirement benefits for these professionals under a broader state program. This bill signifies a significant shift in how prosecuting attorneys are treated within Missouri's employment framework.
Notably, there could be contention surrounding the options for counties to maintain or modify the full-time versus part-time designation of prosecutors. Certain provisions allow counties the discretion to shift a full-time prosecuting position back to part-time based on voter propositions. This creates a scenario where local governance can influence the employment structure of prosecuting attorneys, which some might view as an important control measure, while others may see it as a detriment to strengthening the role of prosecuting attorneys in their jurisdictions.