MS HB649

Amends Section 23-15-951 of the Mississippi Code to change the process for designating judges to hear election contests for county offices.

Requires the circuit clerk to immediately notify the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court (or another Justice if unavailable) who shall designate a circuit judge or chancellor from a different district to hear the election contest.

Directs the Supreme Court to compile a list of judges throughout the state available to hear election disputes and requires the designated judge to conduct hearings at the earliest possible date with reasonable notice to both parties.

Maintains the existing jury trial process to determine the person with the greatest number of legal votes, with each party allowed ten peremptory challenges and standard rules for costs and new trials.

Requires submission to the Attorney General of the United States or U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia for review under the Voting Rights Act of 1965 before the act takes effect.