MS HB111

Elected officials indicted for bribery, extortion, felonies (except manslaughter), federal tax violations, moral turpitude crimes, election law violations, or embezzlement of public funds are suspended immediately without pay.

Suspension remains in effect until the official is acquitted, convicted, or pleads guilty/nolo contendere; conviction or guilty plea results in removal from office and declaration of vacancy.

Officials acquitted or having charges dismissed are entitled to reinstatement and back pay; if they refuse suspension, the Attorney General may petition the circuit court for an order suspending them from office.

Suspension continues into the next term of office if an election occurs before final conclusion of the indictment, and the suspended official cannot participate in office business.

Amends Section 25-5-1 to specify crimes enumerated in Section 1 as grounds for removal, and requires submission to the Attorney General of the United States for Voting Rights Act compliance.