MS HB516

Increases penalty for vote fraud under Section 23-15-753 to a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for 5-10 years in the Department of Corrections.

Expands vote fraud definition to include absentee ballot manipulation, selling votes, false swearing on absentee voting affidavits, and receiving payment for voter assistance.

Makes selling or offering to sell one's vote a felony with a penalty of $50,000 fine and 5-10 years imprisonment under Section 23-15-889.

Maintains separate penalty for paying compensation based on number of absentee voters assisted: $1,000-$5,000 fine or 1-5 years imprisonment.

Requires Attorney General to submit the act to the U.S. Attorney General or U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia under the Voting Rights Act of 1965.