Mississippi House Bill HB666

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

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

Caption

Commission on Status of Women; require that all vacancies be filled and meeting held by July 1, 2022.

Impact

The implementation of this bill is expected to enhance the functionality and responsiveness of the Commission on the Status of Women by ensuring that it is fully staffed and operational. By establishing clear attendance requirements and the consequences for non-compliance, the bill aims to foster active participation among the Commission's members. It further empowers the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Speaker of the House, and Attorney General to ensure that diverse and representative voices are included in discussions and decisions affecting the status of women in Mississippi.

Summary

House Bill 666 aims to amend Section 43-59-3 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, focusing on the governance and operational aspects of the Mississippi Commission on the Status of Women. The bill mandates that all vacancies on the Commission be filled by appropriate state officials by June 1, 2022, and that a full meeting of the Commission be convened before July 1, 2022. Additionally, the bill stipulates that any member who fails to attend three consecutive meetings without just cause shall be removed from the Commission by a majority vote. This emphasizes accountability within the Commission's membership.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 666 primarily focus on the balance between effective governance and representation. While supporters argue that a fully operational Commission will better address issues facing women in Mississippi, critics might express concerns that the removal of members for absenteeism could lead to a lack of continuity and representation. As the Commission addresses critical areas like women’s health, education, and employment, ensuring diverse perspectives remains paramount to its effectiveness and credibility in influencing policy and community actions.