MS SB2299

Establishes a recall procedure for all elected state officials, legislators, and local officials, requiring petition signatures from at least 35% of voters who participated in the last election for that office

Requires an application signed by at least 100 electors or 10% of previous voters (whichever is fewer) before sponsors can begin circulating recall petitions; applications cannot be filed during the first 180 days of an official's term or within the final 6 months

Sets strict timelines for petition circulation: 90 days for statewide offices, 45 days for offices requiring 5,000+ signatures, and 30 days for smaller offices; circuit clerks must verify all signatures

Mandates recall elections be held 50-65 days after petition certification, with removal occurring if more than half of votes cast favor recall; a special election to fill the vacancy must occur within 90 days

Repeals existing local official recall procedures (Sections 25-5-3 through 25-5-37) and establishes misdemeanor penalties up to $500 for paying for signatures, coercing signers, or fraudulently signing petitions