MS HB197

Establishes who may be present at polling places and in the immediate vicinity, including voters, election officials, candidate representatives, peace officers, nonpartisan observers, and news media, provided they do not solicit votes or campaign.

Requires candidates who send representatives to polls to provide each observer with a letter of appointment on a form prescribed by the Secretary of State.

Limits nonparty political organization and nonpartisan candidate observers to one at a time during city or school elections.

Restricts observers for ballot issues (non-general/primary elections) to a maximum of three at any time, with the election commissioner appointing them if more than three submit notices of intent.

Prohibits candidates or their representatives from posting campaign materials within 150 feet of election building entrances or appearing at polls while armed, uniformed, or displaying unauthorized badges or credentials.