Bill would improve public defender system

JEFFERSON CITY — Missouri lawmakers have given final approval to what backers called a "triage" effort for a public defender system in crisis.

Under the bill, the state Public Defender Commission would be allowed to set maximum caseload standards for the lawyers who represent people accused of crimes who cannot afford a private attorney.

Some local public defender offices have turned away clients because their caseloads are so high.

The House sent the bill to Gov. Jay Nixon on Thursday on a 139-16 vote. Sponsoring House member Tim Jones, a Republican from Eureka, said the legislation isn't likely to resolve the issue but is a step in the right direction.