Constitution; place term limits on legislators.
The introduction of term limits is expected to significantly alter the political landscape of Mississippi by reducing the long-term incumbency that can lead to entrenched political behaviors. Proponents of SC528 argue that term limits will promote fresh ideas and enable new leadership in the legislature, thereby fostering greater political participation among the citizenry. They contend that it would help mitigate issues related to political stagnation and the influence of career politicians who may be more beholden to lobbyists than to their constituents.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 528 proposes an amendment to the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, aimed at instituting term limits for members of the Mississippi House of Representatives and the Senate. Specifically, the bill establishes that legislators may serve a maximum of two consecutive terms in either house. After a four-year hiatus following the expiration of their second term, a former legislator could be re-elected to the opposite house for two additional terms, capping total service at a maximum of 16 years. This proposed amendment is scheduled to be presented to the electorate in November 2023.
There are notable points of contention surrounding the bill. While proponents view term limits as a necessary reform to enhance democratic principles and accountability, opponents caution that such limits could lead to a loss of experience in governance. Critics argue that limiting terms might create a vacuum of institutional knowledge and potentially empower lobbyists and unelected officials who often remain entrenched in government. Furthermore, some legislators express concerns that constituents may ultimately suffer from the increased turnover and potential disruption in service and seniority on vital committees.