MS HB585

Changes the method of selecting county superintendent of education from elected to appointed by the county board of education in counties with a population between 61,000 and 62,000 (2000 census) where Mississippi University for Women is located, effective January 1, 2012.

Allows for a reverse referendum if a petition signed by at least 20% of registered voters (or 1,500 voters, whichever is less) is filed before January 1, 2011, requesting a vote on changing from elective to appointive method.

Requires the county board of education to adopt a resolution calling the referendum within their next regular meeting, with the referendum held within 6 weeks of petition filing.

Establishes specific referendum notice requirements including publication at least 5 days per week for 3 consecutive weeks in newspapers with at least one-fourth page ads in 18-point type, surrounded by a black border.

Requires submission of 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 before taking effect.