MS HB291

Changes majority vote requirement for all candidates in state general elections, effective January 1, 2025, applying to state officers, legislators, and all other elected officials.

Extends runoff election timeline from three (3) weeks to four (4) weeks between the general election and runoff when no candidate receives a majority of votes.

Applies majority vote requirement to county and county district officers in election contests, requiring juries to find the person having a majority of legal votes (in addition to or instead of greatest number of votes).

Updates election return procedures and timelines for transmitting vote tallies to the Secretary of State following general and runoff elections.

Effective date of July 1, 2025, with provisions taking effect January 1, 2025 for the new majority vote requirements.