MS HB162

Requires the board of supervisors to hold an election in territory proposed for annexation or removal within 60 days after passage of an ordinance, with only residents of the affected area eligible to vote.

Repeals the requirement to file an enlargement or contraction petition in chancery court, making the election results the final decision unless the municipality appeals.

Requires municipalities appealing election results to the chancery court to pay all attorney's fees and court costs associated with the hearing.

Allows the chancellor to consider election results as evidence when determining whether a proposed annexation or contraction is reasonable and required by public convenience and necessity.

Applies the same election requirements to municipal consolidations under Section 21-1-43, with an effective date of July 1, 2016.