MS SB2645

Increases penalties for various election crimes, with most offenses now punishable by up to 2 years in state penitentiary and/or fines up to $3,000, or up to 1 year in county jail and/or fines up to $1,000.

Creates three new election crimes: unauthorized pollbook erasure or alteration (up to 10 years imprisonment), unlawful tampering with voting machines (up to 10 years imprisonment and/or $5,000 fine), and unlawful ballot marking (fine of $25-$100).

Expands definition of bribery to include "money, financial award" and references to decision "not to vote" in election-related offenses.

Repeals sections 97-13-17 and 97-13-18 regarding corporate and international campaign contributions.

Effective date: January 1, 2017.