MS SB2044

Expands Chief Justice authority to appoint special judges to county courts in addition to circuit and chancery courts to address overcrowded dockets and emergencies.

Allows senior judge of a county court to request appointment of special judges, in addition to existing authority for circuit and chancery court senior judges.

Grants Chief Justice discretion to appoint special judges to hear particular cases, particular types of cases, or particular portions of a court's docket.

Maintains existing compensation structure: sitting judges receive no additional pay; other appointees receive 1/260th of current judicial salary per day with an annual cap at 50% of current chancery or circuit court judge salary.

Takes effect upon passage.