Mississippi Senate Bill SB2299

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Municipal executive committee; prohibit members of from campaigning for candidates on the municipal primary election ballot.

Impact

The passage of SB2299 significantly tightens regulations around campaign activities related to municipal elections in Mississippi. By clearly delineating the responsibilities of municipal executive committees and their members, the legislation aims to protect the integrity of the election process. The amendment ensures that election overseers are impartial and cannot use their positions to support specific candidates openly, which could skew public perception and electoral outcomes. This law is anticipated to foster greater trust among the electorate regarding the fairness of municipal elections.

Summary

Senate Bill 2299 amends Section 23-15-171 of the Mississippi Code to prohibit members of municipal executive committees and primary election officials from campaigning for candidates whose names appear on the municipal primary election ballot. This change aims to ensure that those responsible for overseeing elections do not have undue influence on the outcomes, thereby promoting fair play in the electoral process. The law imposes a misdemeanor charge against any committee member or election official who violates this prohibition, leading to their removal from their position.

Contention

There may be some controversy surrounding this bill, particularly concerning the implications it has for local political dynamics. Supporters argue that it is necessary for upholding election integrity, while opponents might view it as an overreach that limits political expression and engagement from those invested in the electoral outcomes. Some local party members may feel constrained by these regulations, arguing that it limits their ability to support candidates they favor, hence potentially diminishing enthusiasm and involvement in local politics.