AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 23-15-851, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE WHAT OCCURRENCES CONSTITUTE A VACANCY IN EITHER HOUSE OF THE LEGISLATURE; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
Impact
The proposed changes in SB2092 would help streamline the process of filling vacancies within the legislature, potentially minimizing legislative disruptions. By establishing clear definitions of when a vacancy occurs, the bill could lead to more prompt elections to fill these positions, thus maintaining the functionality and representation of the legislature. The requirement for the Governor to issue writs of election within thirty days after a vacancy occurs underscores the urgency of restoring full legislative capacity.
Summary
Senate Bill 2092 aims to amend Section 23-15-851 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 regarding legislative vacancies. This bill specifies the various circumstances that can lead to a vacancy in either house of the Legislature, including the death, resignation, or impeachment of a member, among other reasons. The bill seeks to clarify the procedural aspects of managing such vacancies, which could have implications for how legislative duties are fulfilled when a member can no longer serve.
Contention
Although the bill presents an organized approach to handling vacancies, it could provoke discussions regarding the balance of power between the legislature and the Governor. Some may argue that requiring the Governor to promptly call for elections might lead to politically motivated timing, particularly if a vacancy arises close to election periods. Additionally, the stipulation that the Governor may choose not to fill a vacancy during a general election year could raise concerns about representation and the effectiveness of legislative functions during such years.
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.
Relating to nonsubstantive additions to, revisions of, and corrections in enacted codes, to the nonsubstantive codification or disposition of various laws omitted from enacted codes, and to conforming codifications enacted by the 88th Legislature to other Acts of that legislature.