Legislature; extend 2023 Regular Session, suspend deadlines for certain bills, and set date of sine die adjournment.
Impact
The extension granted by HC60 has significant implications for the legislative process in Mississippi. By suspending deadlines, it provides lawmakers additional time to address items that may have stalled or require further deliberation. This may help in finalizing budgets or other key legislative priorities that could affect state finances and operations. The resolution ensures that necessary bills that require more discussion can continue to be reviewed and amended as needed before the session officially ends.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 60 (HC60) was adopted by the Mississippi Legislature to extend the 2023 Regular Session. The resolution allows for an additional thirty days beyond the standard ninety days for the legislature to conduct its business. This extension is particularly designed to facilitate the consideration and adoption of conference reports regarding certain appropriation bills and general bills still under discussion as of March 27, 2023. Furthermore, COI60 establishes April 4, 2023, as the date for sine die adjournment of the session, ensuring that all legislative work must conclude by this date.
Contention
While HC60 passed without opposition, various stakeholders may hold differing views on extending legislative sessions. Proponents may argue that additional time is essential for thorough consideration of important issues, especially financial appropriations which can significantly impact state operations. Conversely, critics might perceive such extensions as unnecessary delays that can prolong decision-making processes and complicate governance. However, the absence of dissent in the voting indicates a general consensus among lawmakers on the need for the extension this time.
A resolution to direct the Clerk of the House of Representatives to only present to the Governor enrolled House bills finally passed by both houses of the One Hundred Third Legislature.