MS SB2163

Establishes a single State University System comprised of eight public universities under governance of a Board of Governors replacing the former Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning.

Creates a 12-member Board of Governors appointed by the Governor with Senate confirmation, with four members from each of three Mississippi Supreme Court districts serving staggered nine-year terms.

Provides for appointment of a Chancellor of the State University System by the Board of Governors to serve as chief executive officer responsible for implementing board policies and serving as primary liaison to the Legislature.

Establishes local boards of trustees for each university comprised of seven members—four appointed by the Governor and three by the Board of Governors, both subject to Senate confirmation, with staggered five-year terms.

Takes effect July 1, 2016, only upon voter approval of Senate Concurrent Resolution No. ___ in a November 2016 referendum establishing the State University System.