MS SB2761

Brings forward Section 9-1-36, Mississippi Code of 1972, which establishes provisions for judicial support staff and office operating allowances for circuit judges and chancellors.

Sets office operating allowance at $15,000.00 per annum for each circuit judge and chancellor to cover expenses including law clerk retention, legal research, stenographic help, stationery, furniture, office equipment, and telephone.

Establishes a separate support staff allowance fund managed by the Administrative Office of Courts, providing $100,000.00 per fiscal year per judge for compensation of approved support staff including court administrators, law clerks, legal research assistants, and secretaries.

Requires judges to submit personnel plans to the Administrative Office of Courts for approval before employing support staff, with support staff fund expenditures taking priority over county fund expenditures.

Takes effect July 1, 2024.