MS HB251

Amends Section 23-15-961 of Mississippi Code to clarify procedures for challenging candidate qualifications in political party primary elections.

Requires challenges to candidate qualifications be filed within 10 days after the qualifying deadline with the appropriate executive committee, which must rule within 10 days.

Allows aggrieved parties to file for judicial review in circuit court within 15 days, with a $300 cost bond required; the circuit court hearing is de novo and decided by judge without jury.

Establishes that this procedure is the sole method for challenging a candidate's qualifications before nomination and after nomination until the nominee assumes office.

Specifies that after a party nominee is elected in a primary election, challenges to the election itself are governed by Sections 23-15-921 and 23-15-927; takes effect July 1, 2017.