Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB2497

Introduced
1/16/23  
Refer
1/16/23  

Caption

Mississippi Elections Integrity Act of 2023; enact.

Impact

The Mississippi Elections Integrity Act is expected to significantly impact state voting laws by enforcing stricter registration requirements. This act specifically addresses concerns regarding the authenticity of registered voters and aims to diminish instances of fraudulent registrations. By implementing these measures, the bill reflects a growing trend nationwide towards enhancing the integrity of electoral processes. Furthermore, the legislation requires that all existing voter rolls are inspected against a voter's signature on file within a specified timeframe, thereby strengthening the credibility of the electoral system in the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 2497, known as the Mississippi Elections Integrity Act of 2023, establishes new requirements for voter registration in Mississippi. It mandates that individuals registering to vote present specific documentation as proof of U.S. citizenship. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, a passport, or naturalization documents. This act aims to ensure that only eligible citizens are registered to vote, thereby promoting election integrity within the state. Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for election officials to compare the statewide elections management system with state identification databases annually to identify non-citizens registered to vote.

Contention

Critics of SB2497 argue that the stringent voter registration requirements could lead to disenfranchisement, particularly among minority populations and those lacking the necessary documentation. The bill's repeal of prior provisions allowing direct recording electronic voting equipment raises concerns about accessibility and efficiency in the voting process. Supporters claim that these measures are essential for maintaining the security and integrity of elections, but detractors highlight that making voting less accessible could undermine democratic participation. The ongoing debate emphasizes differing perspectives on how best to balance election security with the right to vote.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SB2498

Mississippi Elections Integrity Act of 2023; enact.

MS SB2410

Mississippi Elections Integrity Act of 2022; enact.

MS SB2591

Mississippi Election Reform Act of 2022; enact.

MS HB1310

Elections; revise provisions related to the integrity of.

MS SB2590

Secretary of State Statewide Elections Management System; provide for voter's proof of citizenship.

MS SB2499

Statewide Elections Management System; compare identification databases to ensure noncitizens are not registered to vote.

MS HB950

Statewide Elections Management System; compare to certain databases to ensure non-U.S. citizens are not registered to vote.

MS HB1510

Elections; revise procedures regarding voter roll maintenance.

MS SB2505

Election Integrity Act; create.

MS SB2606

Voter registration; provide for certain procedures upon application.

Similar Bills

MS SB2410

Mississippi Elections Integrity Act of 2022; enact.

MS SB2498

Mississippi Elections Integrity Act of 2023; enact.

MS SB2289

Voter registration; applicants must submit documentation proving U.S. citizenship.

MS SB2591

Mississippi Election Reform Act of 2022; enact.

MS SB2499

Statewide Elections Management System; compare identification databases to ensure noncitizens are not registered to vote.

MS HB950

Statewide Elections Management System; compare to certain databases to ensure non-U.S. citizens are not registered to vote.

MS HB1310

Elections; revise provisions related to the integrity of.

MS SB2606

Voter registration; provide for certain procedures upon application.