Mississippi Senate Bill SC503

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/24
• Refer: 1/19/24
• Failed: 5/14/24

Caption

Joint Rules; amend to allow cosponsorship of bills, joint resolutions and concurrent resolutions originating in other house.

Impact

If enacted, SC503 would modify the existing procedural framework of the Mississippi Legislature. This change would enable members of the non-originating house to be added as cosponsors to legislative proposals upon their passage and transmission to the other house. By allowing cosponsorship across both chambers, the bill aims to encourage legislators to engage more actively in the legislative process and support measures from the opposite house, possibly leading to more bipartisan efforts.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 503 (SC503) proposes an amendment to the Joint Rules of the Mississippi Senate and House of Representatives. The main aim of SC503 is to create a new joint rule, designated as Rule 9B, which would allow legislators to cosponsor bills, joint resolutions, and concurrent resolutions that originate in the opposite house of the legislature. This proposal is designed to promote greater cooperation and collaboration between both legislative bodies, facilitating a more inclusive legislative process.

Contention

The discussions surrounding SC503 may highlight varying views on legislative collaboration. Proponents may argue that this move fosters unity and cooperation among legislators, making the lawmaking process more efficient and transparent. However, some critics might raise concerns about the potential for increased lobbying or influence from external parties, as the ability to cosponsor across houses could lead to strategic political maneuvers that may not always align with the interests of their constituents.