MISSISSIPPI’S INITIATIVE PROCESS
The Mississippi initiative law affords voters an avenue for addressing important constitutional issues which the State Legislature does not.
After registering the initiative with the Secretary of State’s Office, the official ballot title and summary are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General. Initiatives are only valid for one year, during which time a petition must be circulated to gather signatures to place the measure on the next statewide General Election ballot. According to State law, as interpreted by the Mississippi Supreme Court, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered from the congressional district as they exist at the time a petition is presented for approval. No more than twenty percent of signatures of qualified electors may come from a single congressional district.
Not only must an initiative receive a majority of the total votes cast for that particular initiative, it must also receive more than 40% of the total votes cast in that election.
As always, if we may be of any assistance, we encourage you to contact our Elections Hotline at 1-800-829-6786.
INITIATIVES
Click on any of the links below for more information on that initiative.
Subject Matter:
Constitutional Convention
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Shall a constitutional convention convene and the legislative department of government discontinue until an altered constitution is approved or rejected?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This measure would convene a constitutional convention; provide for the qualifications and election of delegates; suspend the legislative department of state government until an altered constitution is approved, or rejected three times; provide $23,640,492.00 from state and local government revenues to pay for this measure; reinstate the 1991-1992 state budget, appropriations and levies to operate state government during the period of legislative suspension; and provide elections every forty years to consider a constitutional convention.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Carl Zimmerman
Address: Route 5 Box 335B Pontotoc MS 38863
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Reduce size of Legislature
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Shall the size of the Mississippi Legislature be reduced to a maximum of thirty senators and sixty representatives?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Section 254 of the Mississippi Constitution now provides that the Mississippi Senate shall consist of not more than 52 senators and that the Mississippi House of Representatives shall consist of not more than 122 representatives. This measure would amend Section 254 to reduce the maximum size of the Legislature to not more than 30 senators and 60 representatives.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Eddie Briggs
Address: PO Box 1018 Jackson MS 39215-1018
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Statutory and Local Referendum
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Shall qualified electors be able to call a referendum to repeal enactments by the state or political subdivisions?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This measure would amend the constitution to allow a referendum to repeal, in whole or part, enactments of the state or political subdivisions. Referendum petitions require signatures by one percent of the qualified electors at the last election in the state or affected political subdivision. The enactment is suspended pending the referendum at the next election. Costs for implementing this measure, and for circulating petitions, estimated to be $636,900, are also provided for.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Carl Zimmerman
Address: Route 5 Box 335B Pontotoc MS 38863
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Term Limits
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Shall public officials be limited to two successive terms, with certain judges and congressional representatives limited to three successive terms?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This measure would amend the state constitution to limit appointed and elected state and local officials and United States Senators to two successive terms. Circuit, chancery, county and family court judges and congressional representatives would be limited to three successive terms. Service prior to January 1, 1996 would not be counted when determining the number of successive terms served by congressional representatives and United States Senators.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Mike Crook
Address: PO Box 2222 Madison MS 39130-2222
Status:
Defeated by voters at November 7, 1995, General Election (54.3%-45.7%).
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Board of Denturity
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Shall persons other than dentists be licensed by a board of denturity to fit and make dentures for the public?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This initiative would: amend the Constitution to allow persons other than licensed dentists to examine patients, and fit, make and sell dentures directly to the public; create a board of denturity, consisting of five members appointed by the governor, which would regulate the practice of denturity, issue licenses, determine qualifications of applicants for licensure and make and enforce rules; and would mandate a ninety day, 100% money back warranty on dentures furnished by denturists.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: W. L. Rayborn
Address: PO Box 1018 Jackson MS 3915-1018 Phone: (601) 833-8527
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Municipal Annexation
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should a majority vote be required before a municipality may annex territory?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This initiative would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require a majority vote of residents in a proposed annexation area before a municipality could annex. If the municipal population or size would increase by more than 5%, a majority vote of the municipality's voters would also be required. If more than 70% of the area's land was owned by non-residents, owners of more than half of the land parcels would also be required to consent.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Kirk Fordice
Address: PO Box 139 Jackson MS 39205-0139 Phone: (601) 359-3100
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Public Schools
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
May citizens propose changes in public schools to local school boards which, if denied, could be decided in an election?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This amendment would create a right to propose changes in school management policies to local school boards. A school board could not deny a proposal for the reason it would: allow attendance by any student desiring to enroll; compensate teachers and administrators based partly on performance; eliminate regulation; allow hiring of non-certified teachers; or, alter curriculum. Any proposal rejected by the board could be submitted to voters in the same manner as school bond issues.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Kirk Fordice
Address: PO Box 139 Jackson MS 39205-0139 Phone: (601) 359-3100
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Board of Denturity
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Shall persons other than dentists be licensed by a board of denturity to fit and make dentures for the public?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This initiative would: amend the Constitution to allow persons other than licensed dentists to examine patients, and fit, make and sell dentures directly to the public; create a board of denturity, consisting of five members appointed by the governor, which would regulate the practice of denturity, issue licenses, determine qualifications of applicants for licensure and make and enforce rules; and would mandate a ninety day, 100% money back warranty on dentures furnished by denturists.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Ronnie Combs
Address: 1213 Bienville Boulevard Ocean Springs MS 39564
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Term Limits
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should state legislators be limited to two (2) consecutive terms in each legislative body?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This initiative would amend the Mississippi Constitution to limit the number of consecutive terms a person can serve in the state legislature to no more than two (2) terms in the house and two (2) terms in the senate after the adoption of this amendment with terms being deemed consecutive unless separated by a full four (4) year term.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Randy Russell
Address: 764 Lakeland Drive Suite 308 Jackson MS 39216 Phone: (601) 362-5434
Status:
Defeated by voters at November 2, 1999 General Election (54.9%-45.1%).
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Punitive Damages
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution limit punitive damages awards to $250,000.00 or five times the economic damages, whichever is greater?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Passage of this amendment would: limit the amount of punitive damages that may be awarded in a case to the greater of $250,000.00 or five times the economic damages; require actual malice, gross negligence or actual fraud be proven beyond a reasonable doubt; prohibit punitive damages awards where the activity or product causing the economic damages was in compliance with federal or state regulatory laws; and, establish certain procedures therefor.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Thomas Slough
Address: PO Box 13987 Jackson MS 39236-3987 Phone: (601) 352-7867
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Punitive Damages
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution limit and/or eliminate the penalty for intentionally defrauding or willfully endangering the people of Mississippi?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Passage of this amendment would: limit the amount of punitive damages that may be awarded in a case to the greater of $250,000.00 or five times the amount of economic damages; require actual malice, gross negligence or actual fraud be proven beyond a reasonable doubt; prohibit punitive damages where the activity or product complied with federal or state regulatory laws; prohibit punitive damages if they have been awarded previously for the same conduct or defect.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Thomas Slough
Address: PO Box 13987 Jackson MS 39236-3987 Phone: (601) 352-7867
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Gaming
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to prohibit gambling and gaming, including lotteries?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This amendment would prohibit gambling and gaming, including lotteries, within the State of Mississippi. Charitable bingo and raffles for nonprofit civic, educational, wildlife conservation or religious organizations are exempt from this prohibition. Existing gaming establishments would have two years from the effective date of this amendment to cease activities. This amendment could not be repealed except after four years from the date of its enactment, and upon every fourth year thereafter.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Elizabeth Stoner
Address: Route 3 Box 246 Eupora MS 39744 Phone: (601) 258-4477
Status:
Ruled invalid by Hinds County Circuit Judge E. J. Russell, July 24, 1998
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Gaming
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to prohibit gambling and gaming, including lotteries?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This amendment would prohibit gambling and gaming, including lotteries, within the State of Mississippi. Charitable bingo and raffles for nonprofit civic, educational, wildlife conservation or religious organizations are exempt from this prohibition. Existing gaming establishments would have two years from the effective date of this amendment to cease activities. The Legislature could not propose a repeal of the amendment except after four years from the date of its enactment, and upon every fourth year thereafter.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Elizabeth Stoner
Address: Route 3 Box 246 Eupora MS 39744 Phone: (601) 258-4477
Status:
Ruled unconstitutional by Hinds County Circuit Judge James E. Graves, Jr., August 14, 1998
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Punitive Damages
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution limit and/or eliminate the penalty for intentionally defrauding or willfully endangering the people of Mississippi?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Passage of this amendment would: Limit the amount of punitive damages that may be awarded in a case to the greater of $250,000.00 or five times the amount of economic damages; require actual malice, gross negligence or actual fraud be proven beyond a reasonable doubt; prohibit punitive damages where the activity or product complied with federal or state regulatory laws; prohibit punitive damages if they have been awarded previously for the same conduct or defect.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Thomas Slough
Address: PO Box 13987 Jackson MS 39236-3987 Phone: (601) 352-7867
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Voter Identification
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to require a person to submit identification in order to vote?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This amendment would: require voters to submit one of several forms of valid identification to election workers in order to prove that the voter is registered to vote; allow a person without such identification to sign an affidavit affirming his identity, such affidavit to be verified under procedures established by law; and make it a felony to present false identification or to falsely sign an affidavit of identity in order to vote.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Michael D. Retzer
Address: PO Box 60 Jackson MS 39205-0060 Phone: (601) 948-5191
Status:
Passed
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Attorney's Fees
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should citizens be prohibited by the Constitution from agreeing to pay more than a one-third contingency fee to their attorneys?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This amendment would prohibit a person from contracting with his attorney for a contingency fee of over: 33 1/3 percent of the first $50,000.00; twenty-five percent of the next $100,000.00; twenty percent of the next $350,000.00; and fifteen percent of any further amounts recovered. Regardless of any agreement with a client, an attorney would be required to estimate and keep records of hours worked on a client's case. Fee information would have to be disclosed.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: John R. McCarty
Address: PO Box 13987 Jackson MS 39236-3987 Phone: (601) 352-7867
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Damages in civil actions
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should a non-prevailing party in any civil action be required by the Constitution to pay a prevailing party's attorneys' fees?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This initiative would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require a non-prevailing party in a civil action to pay attorneys' fees to a prevailing party. A non-prevailing party could avoid liability for attorneys' fees only if he offers to allow judgment to be entered against himself for a specified amount, the prevailing party then rejects that offer but does not obtain more than that offer at the conclusion of the trial.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: John R. McCarty
Address: PO Box 13987 Jackson MS 39236-3987 Phone: (601) 352-7867
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Damages in civil actions
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Constitution prohibit a person from seeking full compensation from each person partially responsible for his damages?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This initiative would amend the Mississippi Constitution to abolish joint and several liability among co-defendants in civil actions; and, would prohibit a plaintiff from seeking full compensation from a tortfeasor who was partially at fault in causing the plaintiff's injury, death or damages. Damages would be allocated among joint tortfeasors in proportion to each tortfeasor's percentage of fault, as determined by the trier of fact, in causing the plaintiff's injury, death or damages.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: John R. McCarty
Address: PO Box 13987 Jackson MS 39236-3987 Phone: (601) 352-7867
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Elections
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Constitution require: voter identification; open primaries; state elections be held in 2006; and, restrictions on mailing absentee ballots?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Passage of this initiative would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require: open party primary elections; that all voters present identification in order to vote; a doctor's affidavit that a voter is unable to come to the polls before an absentee ballot may be sent to the voter; and, that elections for state, district and county offices be held in November of 2006 and every fourth year thereafter.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Nick Walters
Address: PO Box 2599 Jackson MS 39207-2599
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Gaming/Gambling
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to prohibit gambling and gaming, including lotteries?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
This amendment would prohibit gambling and gaming, including lotteries, within the State of Mississippi. Charitable bingo and raffles for nonprofit civic, educational, wildlife conservation or religious organizations are exempt from this prohibition. Existing gaming establishments would have two years from the effective date of this amendment to cease activities. The Legislature would be required to enact laws to enforce this amendment.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Elizabeth Stoner
Address: 2139 Steens Road Caledonia MS 39740
Status:
Ruled unconstitutional by Hinds County Circuit Judge James E. Graves, Jr., May 6, 1999
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
State Flag
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the State Flag adopted in 1894, and used continuously in this State since then, be the Official State Flag?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
The Mississippi Constitution shall be amended to state: The State Flag of Mississippi is and shall be the flag adopted by the Legislature of 1894 and used continuously since then. Any proposed amendment or proposed changes to the State Flag of Mississippi shall conform to the provisions of Section 273 Amendment Process of the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, as amended, as proposed by the Legislature or by initiative of the people.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: J. Gregory Stewart
Address: 1401 Main Street PO Box 745 Tunica MS 38676-0745
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
"Ultimate Human Life Amendment"
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to adopt legal standards defining and protecting human life as provided in Initiative #22?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #22 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require legal recognition that human life begins and is protected at the moment of conception, and to forbid taking the life of a person by aiding a suicide attempt or by depriving an unborn person of life. 'Person' would be defined (without regard for conditions such as race, sex, age, health, function or dependency) to include all stages of biological development from conception until natural death.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: David Rogers
Address: PO Box 8240 Biloxi MS 39535-8240
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
"Ultimate Human Life Amendment"
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to adopt legal standards defining and protecting human life as provided in Initiative #23?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #23 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require legal recognition that human life begins and is protected at the moment of conception, and to forbid taking the life of a person by aiding a suicide attempt or by depriving an unborn person of life. 'Person' would be defined (without regard for conditions such as race, sex, age, health, function or dependency) to include all stages of biological development from conception until natural death.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: David Rogers
Address: PO Box 8240 Biloxi MS 39535-8240
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Assisted Suicide and Abortion
Original Filing:
Ultimate Human Life Amendment We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all persons are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are the Right to Life, that is, the Right to not have one's life taken from them. Therefore, the government of the state of Mississippi shall recognize and defend the God-given Right to Life of all persons equally in accordance with Section 14 of the State Constitution of 1890. The word "person" shall apply to all human beings, regardless of race, color, creed, religion, citizenship, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, health, function, or condition of dependency, at all stages of biological development from fertilization until natural death. No person shall deprive another person of life by assisting or aiding in their suicide. No person shall deprive an unborn person of life; provided, however, that nothing in this amendment shall prohibit a law allowing justification to be shown for only those medical procedures required to prevent the death of either the pregnant woman or her unborn offspring as long as such law requires every reasonable effort be made to preserve the life of each. No designated funds are required to implement this amendment.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to adopt legal standards defining and protecting human life as provided in Initiative #24?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative 24 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require legal recognition that human life begins and is protected at the moment of fertilization and to forbid taking the life of a person by aiding a suicide attempt or by depriving an unborn person of life. “Person” would be defined (without regard for conditions such as race, sex, age health, function or dependency) to include all stages of biological development from fertilization to natural death.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: M. Keith Rogers
Address: PO Box 8240 Biloxi MS 39535-8240
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Cigarette Tax
Original Filing:
CIGARETTES IN MISSISSIPPI SHALL BE TAXED ADDITIONALLY AT 50 PERCENT OF THE NATIONAL CIGARETTE TAX AVERAGE AND EARMARKED FOR MEDICAID We, W.O. Luckett, Jr., aka Bill Luckett and/or Rory C. Reardon, propose creating a Mississippi Medicaid Cigarette Tax, to provide funding assistance for Medicaid in Mississippi. The Mississippi Medicaid Cigarette Tax would be levied, per pack, at 50 percent of the National Cigarette State-Tax Average rate and shall be added to, or in addition to, Mississippi's excise tax, general sales tax, and any other State, Federal, County, Municipal, and any other taxes on cigarettes. The National Cigarette State-Tax Average Rate shall be computed by the Commissioner of Revenue on December 31st of each year. The National Cigarette State-Tax Average Rate is the sum of all rates of excise tax on cigarettes levied by the various States computed on a per pack basis divided by the number of States levying such taxes. The average so determined shall be divided by two and then rounded to the next highest whole number to arrive at the appropriate tax rate. The tax so determined shall be levied and collected by the Commissioner of Revenue beginning on July 1st of each successive year. Any Funds generated by this Medicaid Cigarette Tax shall be collected by the Commissioner of Revenue and divided and distributed under the following guidelines. A) 2% of the funds shall be retained by the Commissioner of Revenue and used for administrative and compliance purposes. B) 98% of the funds shall be distributed to the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid, for further distribution as follows: i) 92% of the funds shall be directed to the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid, for distribution, exclusively, to healthcare providers licensed by the Mississippi State Board of Health. ii) 3% of the funds shall be directed to the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid for distribution exclusively to guard and combat any Medicaid fraud and/or abuse. iii) 1% of the funds shall be directed to the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid, for distribution, exclusively, for tobacco cessation programs. iv) 2% of the funds shall be used by the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid, for administrative or other purposes as necessary. Pursuant to Article 15 Section 273 (4) of the Mississippi Constitution, there is no amount of current revenue required to implement the initiative; this initiative would be self-funding. Specific details and other provisions necessary to implement and maintain the additional tax on cigarettes, known as the Mississippi Medicaid Cigarette Tax, and the intention of this law, shall be provided by the Legislature.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should cigarettes be additionally taxed at fifty percent (50%) of the national cigarette tax average with proceeds earmarked for Medicaid?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #25 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require a new tax to be levied on cigarettes equal to fifty percent (50%) of the National Cigarette State- Tax Average rate which shall be in addition to all other applicable taxes on cigarettes. Ninety- eight percent (98%) of the proceeds of the new cigarette tax shall be distributed to the state Division of Medicaid and the remaining two percent (2%) used for administrative purposes.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: W. O. Luckett, Jr. / Rory C. Reardon
Address: 143 Yazoo Avenue Clarksdale MS 38614
Status:
Withdrawn at request of the initiators
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Definition of “person"
Original Filing:
Be it Enacted by the People of the State of Mississippi: SECTION 1. Article III of the constitution for the state of Mississippi is hereby amended BY THE ADDITION OF A NEW SECTION to read: Section 33. Person defined. As used in this Article III of the state constitution, "The term "person" or "persons" shall include every human being from the moment of fertilization, cloning, or the functional equivalent thereof." This initiative shall not require any additional revenue for implementation.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the term “person” be defined to include every human being from the moment of fertilization, cloning, or the equivalent thereof?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #26 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to define the word “person” or “persons”, as those terms are used in Article III of the state constitution, to include every human being from the moment of fertilization, cloning, or the functional equivalent thereof.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: P. Leslie Riley, Jr.
Address: 3905 Big Hill Road Pontotoc MS 38863
Status:
Failed
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Voter Identification
Original Filing:
VOTER IDENTIFICATION INITIATIVE (1) (a) Except as provided in subsection (2), A qualified elector who votes in a primary or general election, either in person at the polls or in person in the office of the circuit clerk, shall present a government issued photo identification before being allowed to vote. (b) A qualified elector who does not have a government issued photo identification and who cannot afford such identification may obtain a state issued photo identification free of charge from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. The elector must show appropriate identifying documents required by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety as provided by law. (2) (a) An elector living and voting in a state-licensed care facility shall not be required to show a government issued photo identification before being allowed to vote. (b) An elector who has a religious objection to being photographed will be allowed to cast an affidavit ballot, and the elector, within five days after the election, shall execute an affidavit in the appropriate circuit clerk's office affirming that the exemption applies. (c) An elector who has a government issued photo identification, but is unable to present that identification when voting, shall file an affidavit ballot, and the elector, within five days after the election, shall present the government issued photo identification to the appropriate circuit clerk. (3) This provision shall not be construed to require photo identification to register to vote. This provision only requires government issued photo identification for casting a ballot. (4) The Legislature shall enact legislation to implement the provisions of this section of the constitution. Depending on the level of participation, these free photo identifications could cost the State of Mississippi up to $100,000 (one hundred thousand dollars) to be paid from the State General Fund. This would be a reduction of the same amount of revenue to the State of Mississippi as these photo identification cards presently are charged for and collected by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to require a person to submit government issued photo identification in order to vote?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #27 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require voters to submit a government issued photo identification before being allowed to vote; provides that any voter lacking government issued photo identification may obtain photo identification without charge from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety; and exempts certain residents of state-licensed care facilities and religious objectors from being required to show photo identification in order to vote.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: Senator Joey Fillingane
Address: PO Box 1018 Jackson MS 39215-1018
Status:
Passed
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Cigarette Tax
Original Filing:
CIGARETTES IN MISSISSIPPI SHALL BE TAXED ADDITIONALLY AT 40 PERCENT OF THE NATIONAL CIGARETTE TAX AVERAGE AND EARMARKED FOR MEDICAID BODY There is hereby created a Mississippi Medicaid Cigarette Tax to provide funding assistance for Medicaid in Mississippi. The Mississippi Medicaid Cigarette Tax shall be levied, per pack, at 40 percent of the National Cigarette State-Tax Average Rate and shall be added to, or in addition to, Mississippi's excise tax, general sales tax, and any other State, Federal, County, Municipal, and any other taxes on cigarettes. The National cigarette State-Tax Average Rate shall be computed by the Commissioner of Revenue on December 31st of each year. The National Cigarette State-Tax Average Rate shall be the sum of all rates of excise tax on cigarettes levied by the various States computed on a per pack basis divided by two and then rounded to the next highest whole number to arrive at the appropriate tax rate. The tax so determined shall be levied and collected by the Commissioner of Revenue beginning on July 1st of each successive year. Andy Funds generated by the Medicaid Cigarette Tax shall be collected by the Commissioner of Revenue and divided and distributed under the following guidelines. A) 2% of the funds shall be retained by the Commissioner of Revenue and used for administrative and compliance purposes. B) 98% of the funds shall be directed to the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid, for further distribution as follows: i) 92% of the funds shall be directed to the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid, for distribution, exclusively, to healthcare providers licensed by the Mississippi State Board of Health. ii)3% of the funds shall be directed to the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid, for distribution, exclusively, to guard and combat any Medicaid fraud and/or abuse. iii) 1% of the funds shall be directed to the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid, for distribution, exclusively, for tobacco cessation programs. iv) 2% of the funds shall be used by the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid, for administrative or other purposes as necessary. The Mississippi Legislature shall provide other provisions necessary to implement and maintain the additional tax on cigarettes, and the intentions of this law, known as the Mississippi Medicaid Cigarette Tax. Pursuant to Article 15 Section 273 (4) of the Mississippi Constitution, there is no amount of current revenue required to implement the initiative; this initiative would be self-funding.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should cigarettes be additionally taxed at forty percent (40%) of the national cigarette tax average with proceeds earmarked for Medicaid?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #28 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require a new tax to be levied on cigarettes equal to forty percent (40%) of the National Cigarette State- Tax Average rate which shall be in addition to all other applicable taxes on cigarettes. Ninety- eight percent (98%) of the proceeds of the new cigarette tax shall be distributed to the state Division of Medicaid and the remaining two percent (2%) used for administrative purposes
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: W. O. Luckett, Jr. / Rory C. Reardon
Address: 143 Yazoo Avenue Clarksdale MS 38614
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Obeying Federal Directives
Original Filing:
A Proposed Amendment to the Mississippi State Constitution "The State of Mississippi and its residents shall not be bound to obey any directive from the United States Government, or any other governmental body, which directive violates the United States Constitution or is extra-constitutional in its origin or in its makeup."
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should Mississippi be bound to obey directives from the federal government which are not constitutional as described in Initiative #29?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #29 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to provide, “The State of Mississippi and its residents shall not be bound to obey any directive from the United States Government, or any other governmental body, which directive violates the United States Constitution or is extra-constitutional in its origin or in its makeup.”
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Michael W. Worley
Address: 231 Williams Drive Florence MS 39073
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Term Limits
Original Filing:
AN INITIATIVE PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO THE MISSISSIPPI CONSTITUTION OF 1890 TO LIMIT THE TERMS OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS BE IT INACTED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI; Add Section 252A to the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, to read as follows: Preamble: The people of Mississippi find and declare that elected officials who remain in the same office without an intervening term of years become entrenched in public office and tend to become less concerned with their duties as representatives of the people. This entrenched incumbency has led to voter apathy and a closed electoral system. Neither voters nor candidates presently have the benefit of a fee, competitive electoral system which is the heart of our Constitutional government. Therefore, the people of Mississippi, exercising their reserved powers, herein restrict the number of consecutive terms of elected officials. Section 252A. (1) NO PERSON ELECTED OR APPOINTED TO ANY PUBLIC OFFICE OF THIS STATE, OR ANY POLITICAL SUBDIVISION THEREOF, SHALL BE ELIGIBLE TO SERVE IN THAT OFFICE MORE THAN TWO TERMS IN SUCCESSION. AT LEAST FIFTY PERCENT OF ONE TERM TO WHICH ANOTHER PERSON WAS ELECTED SHALL COUNT AS ONE TERM. THIS SECTION SHALL TAKE EFFECT JANUARY 1, 2011. (2) THE NAME OF ANY REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI TO THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS SHALL NOT BE PLACED ON THE BALLOT FOR RE-ELECTION AT THE PRIMARY, GENERAL, OR SPECIAL ELECTION IF, BY THE END OF HIS/HER CURRENT OF OFFICE, THAT PERSON WILL HAVE SERVED (OR, BUT FOR RESIGNATION, WOULD HAVE SERVED0 IN THAT OFFICE FOR TWO CONSECUTIVE TERMS. AT LEAST ONE YEAR OF A TERM TO WHICH ANOTHER PERSON WAS ELECTED SHALL COUNT AS ONE TERM. NOTHING IN THIS SUBSECTION SHALL BE CONSTRUED AS PREVENTING OR PROHIBITING THE NAME OF ANY QUALIFIED VOTER OF THIS STATE FROM CASTING A BALLOT FOR ANY FDERAL LEGISLATIVE CANDIDATE BY WRITING THE NAME OF THAT PERSON ON THE BALLOT AS ALLOWED BY APPLICABLE LAW, OR FROM HAVING SUCH A BALLOT COUNTED OR TABULATED, NOR SHALL ANY PROVISION OF THIS ARTICLE BE CONSTRUED AS PREVENTING OR PROHIBITING ANY PERSON FROM STANDING OR CAMPAIGNING FOR ANY ELECTED OFFICE MY BEAMS OF A "WRITE-IN" CAMPAIGN. THIS SUBSECTION SHALL TAKE EFFECT JANUARY 1, 2011, AND IS APPLICABLE THEREAFTER TO ALL PERSONS WHOSE NAMES ARE SUBMITTED TO THE PROPER AUTHORITIES FOR PLACEMENT ON THE BALLOT FOR ALL PRIMARY, GENERAL, OR SPECIAL ELECTIONS FOR ALL FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE OFFICES. SERVICE PRIOR TO JANUARY 1, 2011 SHALL NOT BE COUNTED FOR PURPOSES OF THIS ACT. THE LEGISLATURE MAY BY LAW DELAY THE EFFECT OF THIS SUBSECTION UNTIL TWENTY-ONE (21)STATES, NOT INCLUDING THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, HAVE ACTED SO AS TO LIMIT THE TERMS OF THEIR CONGRESSMEN IN BOTH HOUSES OF THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS. (3) THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION ARE HEREBY DECLARED TO BE SERVABLE AND IF ANY SHOULD BE HELD INVALID, THE REMAINDER SHALL STAND. (4) NOTHING IN THIS SECTION SHALL BE CONSTRUED AS PREVENTING ANY PERSON FROM SERVING IN A PREVIOUSLY HELD PUBLIC OFFICE, OR AS PREVENTING ANY AUTHORITY FROM PLACING ON THE BALLOT THE NAME OF ANY CANDIDATE FOR A PUBLIC OFFICE IN WHICH THE CANDIDATE HAS PREVIOUSLY SERVED, IF AT LEAST A PERIOD OF FOUR YEARS HAS PASSED. FISCAL EFFECT THIS PROPOSAL DOES NOT REQUIRE ANY REVENUE TO IMPLEMENT. THE PROPOSAL DOES NOT REQUIRE A REDUCTION IN ANY SOURCE OF REVENUE AND IT DOES NOT REQUIRE A REALLOCATION OF FUNDING FROM CURRENTLY FUNDED PROGRAMS.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should public officials in Mississippi be limited to serving two successive terms?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #30 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to limit appointed and elected state and local officials, United States Representatives, and United States Senators to two successive terms. Service prior to January 1, 2011 would not be counted when determining the number of successive terms served by United States Representatives and United States Senators.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: Dr. Godfrey Garner
Address: 304 Jackson St Edwards MS 39066
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Eminent Domain
Original Filing:
No property acquired by the exercise of the power of eminent domain under the laws of the State of Mississippi shall, for a period of ten years after its acquisition, be transferred or any interest therein transferred to any person, non-governmental entity, public-private partnership, corporation, or other business entity with the following exceptions: (1) The above provisions shall not apply to drainage and levee facilities and usage, roads and bridges for public conveyance, flood control projects with a levee component, seawalls, dams, toll roads, public airports, public ports, public harbors, public wayports, common carriers or facilities for public utilities and other entities used in the generations, transmission, storage or distribution of telephone, telecommunication, gas, carbon dioxide, electricity, water, sewer, natural gas, liquid hydrocarbons or other utility products. (2) The above provisions shall not apply where the use of eminent domain (a) removes a public nuisance; (b) removes a structure that is beyond repair or unfit for human habitation or use; (c) is used to acquire abandoned property; or (d) eliminates a direct threat to public health or safety caused by the property in its current condition. Economic Impact Statement The amount and source of revenue required to implement the Initiative, if adopted, will only involve whatever printing costs are associated with the adoption of a constitutional amendment. The process of filing and completing eminent domain proceedings is not affected by the Initiative, which has no effect until any property expropriated to transfer to private parties has become vested in the condemnor. With respect to a reduction in any source of government revenue or reallocation of funding from currently funded programs, the only possible effect would be that property expropriated for transfer to private parties would be removed from the tax rolls if it had been previously owned by an owner paying taxes thereon. This would depend on the location of the property condemned, its assessed value and tax rate and would vary so much that any prediction of its effect would be entirely speculative. Also, the exceptions contained in the initiative would exempt most all condemned property from the limitation on transfers.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should government be prohibited from taking private property by eminent domain and then transferring it to other persons?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #31 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to prohibit state and local government from taking private property by eminent domain and then conveying it to other persons or private businesses for a period of 10 years after acquisition. Exceptions from the prohibition include drainage and levee facilities, roads, bridges, ports, airports, common carriers, and utilities. The prohibition would not apply in certain situations, including public nuisance, structures unfit for human habitation, or abandoned property.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: David Waide
Address: PO Box 1972 Jackson MS 39215-1972
Status:
Passed
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Healthcare Plan
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Constitution prohibit any laws compelling a person or employer to participate in a health care system or plan?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #32 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to provide that people have the right to enter into private contracts with health care providers and purchase private health care coverage, however, a law or rule shall not compel participation in any health care system or plan, nor impose any penalty for choosing to obtain or decline health care coverage or for participating in any particular health care system or plan.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Rep. Steven Palazzo
Address: 787 Destiny Plantation Blvd Biloxi MS 39532
Sponsor: Rep. Alex J. Monsour, Jr.
Address: 102 Villanova Drive Vicksburg MS 39183
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Public Fund Recipients
Original Filing:
No Public Assistance for Drug Users and Non-Citizens Measure Any Mississippi citizen age fourteen (14) and above filing for or currently receiving state public assistance, including but not limited to Welfare, Medicaid, Food Stamps, WIC, Public Housing, CHIPS, etc., shall be required to pass a minimum of one (1) random, annual drug screening, either in the form of a urine test, or the most economically and technologically advanced method available. The drug screen will be a standard 5-panel test that includes adulterant testing and medical review officer conformation. Donor selection shall be done at random with no prior notice given. This screening also applies to those receiving state compensation in the form of a contract, sub-contract or employee status, as well as those hired by contract or sub-contract agreements. Failure to pass said drug screening shall result in six (6) random drug screens over a one year period. Automatic cessation of benefits shall commence immediately upon failure of a second drug screening. Additional drug screening shall be imposed if activities or behaviors warrant, as deemed by a chancery court judge, law enforcement officer or case manager. This program shall be self-funded by the benefits and salaries of the recipients of the public assistance and state contracts. Every person enrolled and receiving the aforementioned benefits shall be subjected to drug screenings within sixty (60) days of the passage of this initiative or lose their benefits and anyone who is not already receiving benefits at the time of the passage of this initiative, but who subsequently applies for and is awarded said benefits, shall first be required to pass a drug screen as part of their application process before their benefits may be awarded. The Mississippi Department of Human Services shall be the designated state agency responsible for overseeing said drug screenings required by this initiative. The State shall contract with local drug screening companies on a bid basis to accomplish the drug screenings required by this initiative. The Mississippi Department of Human Services will be the lead agency responsible for implementing these initiative changes. Upon filing for benefits and at the time of drug screening, a birth certificate and picture I.D. shall be produced to prove citizenship in accordance with the laws governing U.S. citizenship. No public assistance or State salary of any kind shall be received by anyone either residing the state illegally or not in full compliance with the federal and state laws governing legal citizenship and residents, i.e. with a worker/student VISA. This amendment recognizes that public assistance is a privilege and not a right. Summary: This amendment will prevent non-citizens and those on drugs from receiving state public assistance.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should persons, contractors or employees receiving public funds be required to pass drug tests and be citizens or legal residents?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative number 33 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require that persons receiving public assistance, as well as state contractors, subcontractors and state employees, must undergo random drug testing. Persons not currently receiving public assistance must pass drug testing before receiving benefits. This initiative also requires that persons residing in the state illegally are prohibited from receiving public assistance or a state salary of any kind.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: Paul Boudreaux
Address: 670 Mulberry Drive Biloxi MS 39532
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
African-American Day/Women's Day
Original Filing:
Re: "African American Day" and "Women's Day" Dear Mr. Hosemann: 1. The last day of February is declared to be African American day in honor, recognition and commemoration of the legacy of contributions to the State of Mississippi that have been made by American citizens of African descent. This day shall be a day of recognition and commemoration and shall be recognized as a legal holiday. 2. August 26th is declared to be Women's Day in honor, recognition and commemoration of the legacy of contributions to the State of Mississippi that have been made by American women. This day shall be a day of recognition and commemoration and shall be recognized as a legal holiday. ECONOMIC IMPACT STATEMENT The amount and source of revenue to implement the Initiative would be comparable to the same benefits as any legal state holiday in Mississippi. Once adopted it could cost the State 12.3 million dollars for each holiday. The money will be paid from the State's general and special fund.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to provide for an African-American Day and a Women's Day?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #34 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to provide that the last day in February be declared African-American Day in honor, recognition and commemoration of the legacy of contributions to Mississippi made by American citizens of African descent, and, that August 26th be declared to be Women's Day in honor, recognition, and commemoration of the legacy of contributions to Mississippi made by women. Both days shall be recognized as legal holidays.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: Carlos Jackson
Address: 108 Addison Way Canton, MS 39046 Phone: 310-774-9002
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Mississippi Citizen Act
Original Filing:
Re: "Mississippi Citizens Act" IN THE MATTER OF PROPOSED INITIATIVE TO AMEND THE MISSISSIPPI CONSTITUTION OF 1890 RELATING TO THE MISSISSIPPI CITIZENS ACT; A. PROVIDE A METHOD WHEREBY CITIZENS MAY INTRODUCE LEGISLATIVE IDEAS TO THE MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE OFFICE; B. TO PROVIDE A METHOD WHEREBY CITIZENS MAY FILE COMPLAINTS AGAINST LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS REGARDING POLICE MISCONDUCT; TO PROVIDE FOR A HEARING FOR SUCH COMPLAINTS; TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES. C. TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN ACTS BY JUDGES, PROSECUTORS AND ATTORNEYS; TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES. SECTION 1. This Act shall be known and may be cited as the "Mississippi Citizens Act." SECTION 2. A. Any citizen legally registered to vote in the State of Mississippi can introduce legislative ideas to the State of Mississippi legislature's office without the bill being introduced or sponsored by a State Representative or State Senator. The citizen submitting the legislative idea must have a high school diploma or GED and have earned at least twenty-four (24) hours from a University or College to make a legislative submission to the State Legislature's office. The citizen must abide by all State guidelines concerning submitting legislative ideas. B. Any person aggrieved by an action by a law enforcement officer against such person may file a complaint in the circuit court district where the action took place. The court shall hold a jury trial hearings within forty-five (45) days after receiving the complaint to determine if a violation has occurred. The jurors will be seven citizens residing in the State of Mississippi all of different ethnicity and gender. The person filing the complaint and the law enforcement officer shall take a polygraph examination two weeks prior to the court hearing regarding the incident. The case will utlimately be reviewed and determined by the jurors. If the court finds that the law enforcement officer has committed a violation of misconduct, racial misconduct, unnecessary physical abuse or other improper conduct, the officer shall be subject to a find of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) by the State of Mississippi to be paid over a one year period and a suspension from the law enforcement agency for thirty (30) days. Any person who files a false claim under this section shall be subject to a fine of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) or imprisonment for not more than 30 Days or both. If the conduct of the officer is found to be a violation of law, the district attorney shall file the appropriate criminal charges and prosecute the officer. C. Any judge, prosecutor or attorney who deprives any person of their constitutional and civil rights, who is found guilty of false pretense, who abuses or exceeds their judicial power, who is guilty of improper courtroom decorum or who engages in unethical conduct shall, in addition to any other offense, be guilty of a violation of this act and shall, upon conviction, be fined Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) by the State of Mississippi. In addition to such fine the person shall be suspended from the practice of law for ninety (90) days for the first offense and shall be suspended from the practice of law for one (1) year for a second or subsequent offense. A party with legal standing may petition the court and The Mississippi Bar to disbar a violator for up to five (5) years if the actions of the violator are found to be acts of malice. No judge shall issue any ruling on a legal matter without conducting a fair hearing which allows all interested parties to participate. A violation of this section shall be subject to the penalties provided in Section 2-C of this act. ECONOMIC IMPACT STATEMENT The amount and source of revenue to implement the initiative would be paid by the state's General and Special Fund estimated to be $100,000 or less.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the right to directly propose legislation, and file court complaints against law enforcement officers, be put into the Constitution?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #35 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to allow citizens to introduce ideas directly to the legislature without being sponsored by a legislator, would provide that persons may file a complaint in court against law enforcement officers who may be fined and suspended for misconduct, and would provide that judges, prosecutors or attorneys who engage in certain unlawful or improper conduct may be fined, suspended from the practice of law, and disbarred.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: Carlos Jackson
Address: 108 Addison Way Canton, MS 39046 Phone: 310-774-9002
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Colonel Reb Mascot
Original Filing:
Upon passage of this initiative, the Constitution of the State of Mississippi shall be amended to include and incorporate the following text: "Colonel Reb shall be the official and sole mascot of the University of Mississippi. The Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning and the University of Mississippi administration shall ensure that: (1) Colonel Reb, in his traditional costumed appearance, shall be visible as an active mascot on the sidelines of every University of Mississippi football and basketball game, in addition to other university athletic events according to precedent; (2) Colonel Reb, in his traditional logo appearance, shall be prominently included in every University of Mississippi logo, on every university athletic uniform and football helmet, on every university Internet page, on every university yearbook cover and title page, on every university letterhead, on every university newspaper front page, on every university catalogue and magazine cover, on every university promotional and recruitment publication cover, on every university video and video cover, and on every university diploma; (3) Colonel Reb, in his traditional costumed and logo appearances, shall be offered as a merchandise them for sale in all University of Mississippi merchandise sales venues; (4) Colonel Reb's traditional costumed and logo appearances shall be defined by, and shall accurately and entirely resemble in every feature and characteristic, his standard and classical appearance, as portrayed definitively on the cover of the 1947 University of Mississippi yearbook (the 1947 Ole Miss), with the only permissible variations to this appearance being that his trousers and his can may be either solid white, solid grey, or solid red, and that, in his logo appearance, he may either face towards the right with his cane on the left, or face towards the left with his cane on the right; (5) Colonel Reb shall be given by the University of Mississippi the full range of institutional rights and respect that are customarily attributed to time-honored mascots; and (6) The University of Mississippi student body shall continue its traditional of annually electing a male student to be honored with the title of Colonel Reb, and annually electing a female student to be honored with the title of Miss Ole Miss, who shall serve as the ceremonial host and hostess of annual Dixie Week festivities, which shall be arranged by the university's Associated Student Body to occur throughout one full week in the month of April." REVENUE STATEMENT: Implementation of this initiative shall not require any net increase in expenditures by the University of Mississippi or the State of Mississippi. Indeed, the required resumption of public and perpetual selling of Colonel Reb merchandise by the University of Mississippi will enable the university of resume its former profit therefrom. This initiative would not reduce government revenue, and this initiative would not reallocate government revenue or government funding. But, all public or university funds that have been allocated to facilitate a different University of Mississippi mascot or to assist the attempted mascot change shall be reallocated to fund the requirements of this initiative. The funding for the annual Dixie Week festivities shall come from the budget of the University of Mississippi Associated Student Body at the discretion of its voting members, from private donations, and from non-public contributions, such as local and participating businesses.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to designate "Colonel Reb" as the official mascot of the University of Mississippi?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #37 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to require "Colonel Reb", in his traditional costumed appearance, to be visible as an active mascot on the sidelines of University of Mississippi athletic events. "Colonel Reb" would be required to be included on every University of Mississippi logo, university athletic uniform and helmet, on every university internet page, on every university yearbook cover and title page, on every university letterhead, and on other specified university publications.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: Mr. Arthur Randallson
Address: P.O. Box 488 Southaven, MS 38671
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
African-American Day/Women's Day
Original Filing:
Re: "African American Day" and "Women's Day" IN THE MATTER OF PROPOSED INITIATIVE TO AMMEND THE MISSISSIPPI CONSTITUTION OF 1890 RELATING TO AFRICAN AMERICAN DAY AND WOMEN'S DAY; 1. The last day of February is declared to be African American day in honor, recognition and commemoration of the legacy of contributions to the State of Mississippi that have been made by American Citizens of African descent. This day shall be a day of recognition and commemoration and shall be recognized as a legal state holiday. 2. August 26th is declared to be Women's Day in honor, recognition and commemoration of the legacy of contributions to the State of Mississippi that have been made by American women. This day shall be a day of recognition and commemoration and shall be recognized as a legal state holiday. ECONOMIC IMPACT STATEMENT The amount and source of revenue to implement the Initiative would be comparable to the same benefits as any legal state holiday in Mississippi. Once adopted it could cost the State 12.3 million dollars for each holiday. The money will be paid from the State's general fund and special fund.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to provide for an African-American Day and a Women's Day?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #39 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to provide that the last day in February be declared African-American Day in honor, recognition and commemoration of the legacy of contributions to Mississippi made by American citizens of African descent, and, that August 26th be declared to be Women's Day in honor, recognition, and commemoration of the legacy of contributions to Mississippi made by women. Both days it shall be recognized as legal holidays.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: Carlos Jackson
Address: 108 Addison Way Canton, MS 39046 Phone: 310-774-9002
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Mississippi Citizens Act
Original Filing:
Re: "Mississippi Citizens Act" IN THE MATTER OF PROPOSED OF INITIATIVE TO AMMEND THE MISSISSIPPI CONSTITUTION OF 1890 RELATING TO THE MISSISSIPPI CITIZENS ACT; A. PROVIDE A METHOD WHEREBY CITIZENS MAY INTRODUCE LEGISLATIVE IDEAS TO THE MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE OFFICE; B. TO PROVIDE A METHOD WHEREBY CITIZENS MAY FILE COMPLAINTS AGAINST LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS REGARDING POLICE MISCONDUCT; TO PROVIDE FOR A HEARING FOR SUCH COMPLAINTS; TO PROVIDE PENALTIES; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES. C. TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN ACTS BY JUDGES, PROSECUTERS AND ATTORNEYS; TO PROVIDE PENALITES FOR VIOLATIONS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES. SECTION 1. This Act shall be known and may be cited as the "Mississippi Citizens Act." SECTION 2. A. Any citizen legally registered to vote in the State of Mississippi can introduce legislative ideas to the State of Mississippi legislature's office without the bill being introduced or sponsored by a State Representative or State Senator. The citizen submitting the legislative idea must have a high school diploma or GED and have earned at least twenty-four (24) hours from a University of College to make a legislative submission to the State Legislature's office. The citizen must abide by all State guidelines concerning submitting legislative ideas. B. Any person aggrieved by an action by a law enforcement officer against such person may file a complaint in the circuit court district where the action took place. The court shall hold a jury trial hearings within sixty (60) days after receiving the complaint to determine if a violation has occurred. The juror selection will be three registered voters residing in the State of Mississippi all of different ethnicity. The personal filing the complaint and the law enforcement officer shall take a polygraph examination two weeks prior to the court hearing regarding the incident. The case will ultimately be reviewed and determined by the jurors. If the court finds that the law enforcement officer has committed a violation of misconduct, racial misconduct, unnecessary physical abuse or other improper conduct, the officer shall be subject to fine of Five Thousand Dollars ($500.00) by the State of Mississippi to paid over a one year period and a suspension from the law enforcement agency for thirty (30) days. Any person who files a false claim under this section shall be subject to fine of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) or imprisonment for not more then 30 Days or both. If the conduct of the officer is found to be a violation of law, the district Attorney shall file the appropriate criminal charges and prosecute the officer. C. Any judge, prosecutor or attorney who deprives any person of their constitutional and civil rights, who is found guilty of false pretense, who abuses or exceeds their judicial power, who is guilty of improper courtroom decorum or who engages in unethical conduct shall, upon conviction, be fined Five Thousand Dollars ($5000.00) by the State of Mississippi. In addition to such fine the personal shall be suspended from the practice of law for ninety (90) days for the first offense and shall be suspended from the practice of law for one (1) year for a second or subsequent offense. A party with legal standing may petition the court and The Mississippi State Bar to disbar a violator for up to five (5) years if the actions of the violator are found to be acts of malice. No judge shall issue any ruling on a legal matter without conducting a fair hearing which allows all interested parties to participate. A violation of this section shall be subject to the penalties provided in Section 2-C of this act. ECONOMIC IMPACT STATEMENT The amount and source of revenue to implement the initiative would be paid by the state's General and Special Fund estimated to be $100,000 or less.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the right to directly propose legislation, and file court complaints against law enforcement officers, be put into the Constitution?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #40 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to allow citizens to introduce ideas directly to the Legislature without being sponsored by a legislator, would provide that persons may file complaints in court against law enforcement officers who may be fined and suspended for misconduct, and would provide that judges, prosecutors or attorneys who engage in certain unlawful or improper conduct may be fined, suspended from the practice of law, and disbarred.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: Carlos Jackson
Address: 108 Addison Way Canton, MS 39046 Phone: 310-774-9002
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Right to Life
Original Filing:
Be it Enacted by the People of the State of Mississippi: Article 14 of the Mississippi Constitution of 1890 is hereby amended BY THE ADDITION OF A NEW SECTION to read: "Section 269A. The right to life begins at conception. All human beings at every stage of development are unique, created in the image of God, and shall enjoy the inalienable right to life as persons under the law." This initiative shall not require any additional revenue for implementation.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to state that the right to life as a person begins at conception?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. #41 states: The right to life begins at conception. All human beings at every stage of development are unique, created in the image of God, and shall enjoy the inalienable right to life as persons under the law.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Ms. Ann Reed
Address: P.O. Box 403 New Albany, MS 38625
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Public Schools Funding
Original Filing:
Should the State be required to provide for the support of an adequate and efficient system of free public schools? Summary:The amendment will protect each child's fundamental right to educational opportunity through the 12th grade by amending Section 201 so that the state must provide and the legislature must fund an adequate and efficient system of free public schools. The recommendation is to finance this not by new taxes but by using a portion of future increases in general fund revenues over the next seven years in order to reach the necessary level of funding. Section 201: Educational opportunity for public school children To protect each child's fundamental right to educational opportunity, the State shall provide for the establishment, maintenance and support of an adequate and efficient system of free public schools. The chancery courts of this State shall have the power to enforce this section with appropriate injunctive relief. Amount and Source of Revenue Required to Implement the Initiative: For purposes of the initiative, a minimum standard of contemporary adequate education is described by the funding formula of the current version of the Mississippi Adequate Education Program and an efficient education is one that will, among other things, enable Mississippi's public school graduates to compete favorably with their counterparts in surrounding states. Funding the initiative will not require a reduction in, elimination of, or reallocation of funding from any currently funded programs. The initiative will be funded by maintaining current funding levels for public education through the 12th grade adjusted for inflation, and then devoting to public education not less than 25% of future increases in general fund and other tax collections in order to achieve the constitutionally required level of adequacy and efficiency in the public educational system by a target date of Fiscal Year 2022 and maintain it in the future. For example, the state's general fund revenues are projected to increase over Fiscal Year 2014 levels by approximately 3% annually, which will produce an additional $150 million in Fiscal Year 2015. Twenty-five percent of that would be $37.5 million. A similar amount for seven years would reach the additional $265 million a year in current dollars which will be needed to provide Mississippi's public school students with an education that is adequate and efficient by contemporary standards. This initiative is not intended to restrict or meaningfully reduce the overall percentage of general fund revenues devoted to public schools, which at present is approximately 40% If enforcement is necessary, injunctive relief will be the preferred remedy.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the State be required to provide for the support of an adequate and efficient system of free public schools?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #42 would protect each child's fundamental right to educational opportunity through the 12th grade by amending Section 201 of the Mississippi Constitution to require that the State must provide and the legislature must fund an adequate and efficient system of free public schools. This initiative would also authorize the chancery courts of this State to enforce this section with appropriate injunctive relief.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: Luther Munford
Address: 801 Gillespie Street Jackson, MS 39202
Status:
Failed
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Relating to Referenda
Original Filing:
“This amendment would allow the citizens to call a referendum for the purpose of voting to repeal a state, county, or municipal law/ ordnance. Policy decisions of state and local public departments, agencies, boards, and districts shall also be subject to public referendum. The governing body overseeing that policy/law shall not be allowed to veto the results of said referendum. A simple majority of voters supporting said referendum would cause that governing body to take actions to repeal the offending policy, law, or ordinance within 90 days of referendum election. The process for getting an initiative on the ballot would be the same as amending the state constitution with the exception of the signatures of the petition would be gathered across the Congressional districts currently in use instead of the 2000 Congressional districts. Government officials may challenge referendums if it is a concern of public health. Costs: There will be no costs to implement this policy. Elections will be held on the next ballot. County and Municipal elections may be held at a different time, if deemed appropriate, at no costs to the state.”
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Constitution be amended to provide a referendum process permitting the repeal of state laws and local ordinances?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 44 would allow the citizens to call a referendum for the purpose of voting to repeal a state law or local ordinance. Policy decisions of state and local governments would also be subject to the referendum process. A governing body would not be allowed to veto the results of the referendum. Government officials would challenge a referendum if it is a concern of public health.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Mr. Josh Hardy
Address: 22513 Hinton Road Lucedale, Mississippi 39452
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Relating to School Vouchers
Original Filing:
“This amendment would give the State Legislature the authority to develop a system of issuing vouchers for school choice. The voucher system shall be implemented no later than two school years after passage of amendment. Students who live in a public school district will have first priority for attending that school. Local School Boards will determine how many students from outside of the school district may enroll in its school district. The Local School Board will also develop an admissions system for its school district. The current system used for funding schools will be used. The State Legislature will reserve the authority to make any changes to the funding of the public schools. If a parent chooses to home school or send his/her child to private school, then the parent may receive a voucher equivalent to what the parent pays in school taxes (from the property tax) to use for this. Local School districts will have the authority to form working relationships with other school districts. Costs: There will be no costs to the State to implement this policy. The costs to the local school district would be equivalent to d1e school tax that pays in with their property tax. If the parent has one child in public school and one in home or private school, then the voucher will not be issued.”
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Constitution be amended to require the legislature to develop a system of issuing vouchers for school choice?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 45 would require the state legislature to develop a system of issuing vouchers for school choice. Students living in a public school district would have first priority for attending the school in that district. Local school boards would establish an admissions system and determine how many students from outside the school district may enroll in its school district.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Mr. Josh Hardy
Address: 22513 Hinton Road Lucedale, Mississippi 39452
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
State Heritage
Original Filing:
"The standard title of this initiative shall be the "Heritage Initiative". Upon the passage of the Heritage Initiative, the Constitution of the State of Mississippi shall be amended to include and incorporate all of the following twelve provisions; the State Legislature may select the location, within the Mississippi Constitution, of each provision. (I.) The State of Mississippi hereby acknowledges the fact of her identity as a principally Christian and quintessentially Southern state, in terms of the majority of her population, character, culture, history, and heritage, from 1817 to the present; accordingly, the Holy Bible is acknowledged as a foremost source of her founding principles, inspiration, and virtues; and, accordingly, prayer is acknowledged as a respected, meaningful, and valuable custom of her citizens. The acknowledgments hereby secured shall not be construed to transgress either the national or the state Constitution's Bill of Rights. (II.) English shall be the official language of the State of Mississippi. All governmental or public non-emergency or non-judicial services, functions, or communications in Mississippi shall be rendered in the English language only, except for specific foreign language instruction in public schools, and except for the option of Latin or French for jurisprudence, medicine, heraldry, and other traditional uses. (III.) The state flag of Mississippi shall be the state flag adopted in 1894, which has been in continuous use since 1894, and which was confirmed by statewide vote in 2001. The state flag of Mississippi shall be displayed in front of all public buildings, including but not limited to all state, county, and municipal buildings and any school receiving state funding. Wherever the national flag is displayed on public land or in public buildings, a state flag of equal size shall also be displayed. In Mississippi public schools and other public institutions, whenever the pledge of allegiance to the national flag is recited, the state flag salute shall be recited immediately thereafter. The state flag salute shall be: "I salute the flag of Mississippi and the sovereign state for which it stands with pride in her history and achievements and with confidence in her future under the guidance of Almighty God." (IV.) Mississippi's official and sole state nickname shall be "The Magnolia State". Mississippi's official and sole state motto shall be "Virtute et Armis"; said state motto shall appear below the eagle on the state's coat-of-arms. Mississippi's official and sole state song shall be "Dixie". Whenever the national anthem is played in a public venue or at a public event in Mississippi, either "Dixie" or "Go, Mississippi" shall be played immediately thereafter. (V.) All newly issued and all replacement Mississippi car tags, driver licenses, identification cards, welcome signs, and historical markers shall include: an image of the state flag of Mississippi, an image of the Magnolia flower, and the words "Mississippi" and "The Magnolia State" in elegant font. (VI.) The official and sole mascot of the University of Mississippi shall be "Colonel Reb", whose appearance shall be an accurate reflection of Colonel Reb's definitive appearance on the cover of the 1947 University of Mississippi yearbook (the 1947 Ole Miss). University of Mississippi teams shall be the "Rebels". The official and sole alternate title of the University of Mississippi shall be "Ole Miss"; no other alternate titles, abbreviations, or bynames of the University of Mississippi shall be used in any official capacity. The University of Mississippi traditions of playing "Dixie" and of displaying hand-held flags of any size, with or without flag sticks, at athletic events or in athletic venues shall not be infringed. The annual Ole Miss homecoming titles shall be "Colonel Reb" and "Miss Ole Miss". One year after the Heritage Initiative's passage, a life-sized, classical, and heroic statue of University Greys soldier Jeremiah Gage shall be erected on the edge of University Circle, positioned centrally in front of the Lyceum; said statue shall stand on a base five feet high with a metal plaque affixed listing the name, rank, and hometown of each University Greys soldier; the funding thereof shall be from non-public sources. (VII.) The official and sole mascot of Mississippi State University shall be "Bully", who shall be an English Bulldog. Mississippi State University teams shall be the "Bulldogs". The Mississippi State University traditions of carrying and ringing hand-held Cowbells, of prominently featuring Bully in the form of a live canine Bulldog at athletic events or in athletic venues, and of honoring the founding college president, Stephen Dill Lee, shall not be infringed. (VIII.) The official and sole mascot of the University of Southern Mississippi shall be "Seymour d'Campus", who shall be a "Golden Eagle". University of Southern Mississippi teams shall be the "Southerners". The University of Southern Mississippi traditions of celebrating Mardi Gras and of prominently featuring a live horse named "Son of Dixie" shall not be infringed. (IX.) Alcorn State University, Delta State University, Jackson State University, Mississippi University for Women, and Mississippi Valley State University shall not be required to consolidate or merge, and they shall be permitted to remain distinct public institutions of higher learning. (X.) The month of April shall be "Confederate Heritage Month" in the State of Mississippi, annually proclaimed by the Governor and declared by the Secretary of State. Annually throughout the month of April, all primary and secondary public schools in the state shall acknowledge "Confederate Heritage Month" and include within the curriculum appropriate information about Mississippi's Confederate history, heritage, achievements, and prominent people, including Mississippi's African American and Native American veterans. The last Monday in April shall be "Confederate Memorial Day", an annual state holiday; all state, county, and municipal non-emergency departments and buildings, including but not limited to public schools, universities, courts, and offices, shall be closed in observance thereof. Non-emergency public employees within any department or building closed on Confederate Memorial Day shall have a non-compensated holiday on this day, unless the State Legislature voluntarily allocates compensation to said public employees for this holiday. The right to acknowledge, observe, and celebrate "Dixie Week" throughout the seven days preceding Confederate Memorial Day shall not be infringed. (XI.) In honor of the Mississippians who served under this military flag, the Confederate Battle Flag, measuring at minimum four feet by four feet, shall be permanently displayed on a flag-pole directly behind and above the monument to Confederate women on the state capitol's exterior grounds. The right to place and display flags at veterans' graves shall not be infringed. Within Mississippi, all publicly owned, publicly held, or publicly managed Confederate or Confederate-themed items, including but not limited to monuments, statues, works of art, relics, markers, signs, names, titles, structures, roads, parks, graves, and cemeteries shall be preserved and maintained by the state government, which may delegate applicable duties to the respective counties or municipalities for this purpose; for all cases in which said items were renamed, the more historical name shall take precedence and be reestablished in full. (XII.) The borders and boundaries of the State of Mississippi are hereby restored; the repealing of Article 2, Section 3, of the Mississippi Constitution, is hereby nullified; and said Article 2, Section 3, shall be reinstated and reactivated, in its entire pre-1990 wording. The jurisdiction and laws of the State of Mississippi, and the rights and liberties of her citizens, shall exist within her borders and boundaries. Revenue Statement: Implementation of the Heritage Initiative would not require a net increase in government expenditures beyond an estimated maximum of $250,000 per year (less than 0.005 percent of the state's current fiscal year budget), which the State Legislature may apportion from the state's General Fund and/or Special Fund. Most of the Heritage Initiative's provisions would not require any additional government expenditures or allocations of revenue; for the provisions that involve revenue, the State Legislature may reasonably apply the least costly means to carry out the provisions of this initiative."
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Constitution be amended to restrict or define Mississippi’s heritage, religion, official language, symbols, universities, and state boundaries?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #46 would amend the Constitution to restrict or define Mississippi’s heritage in the following areas: religion, official language, state flag, nickname, song, motto and state university mascots. Further, the initiative would prevent the consolidation of Alcorn State University, Delta State University, Jackson State University, Mississippi University for Women, and Mississippi Valley State University, designate the month of April “Confederate Heritage Month,” and reinstate Mississippi’s Constitutional boundaries.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Mr. Arthur Randallson
Address: P.O. Box 488 Southaven, MS 38671
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Legalization of Cannabis
Original Filing:
MISSISSIPPI'S CONSTITUTION SHALL BE AMENDED TO ADD: ARTICLE 15, SECTION 286, AND ARTICLE FIVE, SECTION 124-A. ARTICLE 15, SECTION 286: The people of Mississippi declare an end to the prohibition on cannabis, and fully legalize the use, taxation (if applicable), medical use, cultivation and sale of both industrial hemp, and cannabis (as defined by the Federal Government), only for adults who are 21 years or older. Cannabis farmers growing plants that exceed Federal Government THC levels for industrial hemp must secure their crops from unauthorized harvesting. Cannabis, with THC levels exceeding those of industrial hemp will be regulated like alcohol no later than 240 days from enactment. Regulations will require an annual Mississippi Cannabis Sales license issued by any Mississippi County Circuit Clerk for a fee of no more than $1000.00 to all adult residents who a pply, and a $25.00 annual city or county governing locality fee to farm 10-500 plants. Locality fees for cannabis farms with more than 500 plants will not exceed $1000.00. A Mississippi sales tax of 7% will be collected upon every sale, except sales for cannabis sold for medicinal purposes and for industrial hemp which will be exempt from taxation. Sales License Fees and annual locality fees are to be retained by the locality. Owners of 9 or fewer ccannabis plants are not considered farmers and are not required to pay a farming locality fee. The 7% cannabis sales tax, and the farming locality fees may be reviewed in 2025 and every 5 years thereafter. The cannabis sales tax can only be lowered; farming locality fees may be adjusted but only by 10%. All 7% sales taxes collected shall benefit Mississippi public schools until 2020 when the distribution of funds may be reviewed. Cannabis-related crimes may be punished in a manner similar to, or to a lesser degree, than alcohol-related crimes. The legislature shall add a process for expunging the criminal record of any person convicted on non-violent cannabis possession, sales and manufacture against the State of Mississippi. Industrial hemp shall be regulated by the Dept. of Agriculture. The Dept. of Health shall be responsible for a state-wide dispensary program and begin the issuing of identification for medicinal cannabis patients within 180 days from enactment. The Chancery Courts of this state shall have the power to enforce this section with injunctive relief. ARTICLE FIVE, SECTION 124-A: The Governor shall pardon persons convicted of non-violent cannabis violations against the State of Mississippi, both prior and current, within 60 days of receipt of their written request, as long as they meet the qualifications. The Chancery Courts of this state shall have the power to enforce this section with injunctive relief. Amount and Source of Revenue Required to Implement Ballot Initiative: The estimated gross income from the 7% cannabis sales tax is $17 million dollars for the first 7 months of sales.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the use, cultivation, and sale of cannabis and industrial hemp be legalized for persons 21 years or older?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 48 would legalize the use, cultivation, and sale of cannabis and industrial hemp. Cannabis crimes would be punished in a manner similar to, or to a lesser degree than, alcohol related crimes. Cannabis sales would be taxed 7%. Cannabis sold for medicinal purposes and sales of industrial hemp would be exempt from taxation. The Governor would be required to pardon persons convicted of nonviolent cannabis crimes against the State of Mississippi.
Initiative Petition:
Click here to view Initiative Petition
Sponsor: Kelly Jacobs
Address: 3985 Robertson Gin Road Hernando, MS 38632 Phone: 662-429-4412 Email: Kellitaj@aol.com
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Term Limits
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should state legislators and statewide elected officials be limited to two (2) consecutive terms in the same office?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative #51 limits the number of consecutive terms a person can serve in the same state house, state senate or statewide elected office to no more than two (2) terms after the adoption of the amendment. Terms would be deemed consecutive unless separated by a full four (4) year term.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Brian Keith Plunkett
Address: P.O. Box 155 Flora, MS 39071
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Relating to the Legalization of Cannabis
Original Filing:
"THE MISSISSIPPI CANNABIS FREEDOM ACT" TO LEGALIZE CANNABIS USES & INDUSTRIAL HEMP & TAXES COLLECTION INITIATIVE MEASURE SUMMARY Purpose/Definition: We the undersign intend to circulate and file a "Measure" means an amendment to the Mississippi Constitution 1890 by a petition of qualified elector under Section 273, Mississippi Constitution of 1890. We the people of the State of Mississippi ask Mississippi voters to amend The Mississippi Constitution 1890, for "The Mississippi Cannabis Freedom Act." We hereby petition Mississippi Secretary of State and Mississippi Attorney General Office for an official Serial Measure Number to collect signatures, from Mississippi's voter, to place this "Measure" on General Election ballot. We define "Cannabis" in "Measure" and/or Initiatives means also Hemp, Weed, Herd, Marijuana, Grass, Wax, Concentrate Extract and Hashish. MEASURE SUMMARY: WE THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI ASK VOTERS TO AMEND MISSISSIPPI'S CONSTITUTION 1890, THIS MEASURE TITLED "THE MISSISSIPPI CANNABIS FREEDOM ACT." THE MISSISSIPPI CANNABIS FREEDOM ACT "SHALL" CREATE LEGAL CANNABIS MARKETS IN MISSISSIPPI FOR ADULTS', MEDICAL MARIJUANA, HEMP FARMING FOR INDIVIDUALS EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE AND OVER IN MISSISSIPPI LEGAL CANNABIS MARKET. THIS "MEASURE" BY MISSISSIPPI VOTERS' GIVES STATE GOVERNMENT, BUSINESSES, DOCTORS, PHARMACISTS, CAREGIVERS, AND CANNABIS: PATIENTS, CULTIVATORS, MANUFACTURES, DISTRIBUTORS, SELLERS, USERS, AND/OR HEM FARMERS PROTECTIONS FROM PROSECUTION AND/OR JAIL BY THE GOVERNMENT (STATE AND/OR OTHERS). THIS "MEASURE" SHALL ALLOW MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO COLLECT CANNABIS AGRICULTURAL TAXES FOR EDUCATION (50%) AND HEALTHCARE (50%). MISS. CODE ANN. SECTION 23-17-11 (1972) MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATORS "SHALL" REDUCE, TRANSFER, REALLOCATE AND/OR ELIMINATE ANY OF THESE MISSISSIPPI DRUG POLICY PROGRAMS FOR FUNDING, $15,000,000 MILLION DOLLARS ANNUALLY, FROM MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION, MISSISSIPPI BUREAU OF NARCOTICS, MISSISSIPPI'S DRUG ENFORCEMENT INTERDICTION AGENCY, MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS, AND MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE TO STARTUP, IMPLEMENT, OPERATE, AND MAKE CANNABIS MARKETS RULES FOR THIS "MEASURE" PASSED BY MISSISSIPPI'S VOTERS. ANNUAL FUNDS TRANSFERRED SHALL BE USED, FOR CANNABIS OPERATIONS AT MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, FOR CANNABIS OPERATIONS AT MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES, FOR CANNABIS OPERATIONS AT MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE & COMMERCE, AND CANNABIS OPERATIONS AT THE MISSISSIPPI CANNABIS FREEDOM FUND. FUNDING EACH DEPARTMENT MANDATES, APPROVED BY MISSISSIPPI'S VOTERS, IS EXPECTED TO ADD AN ESTIMATED 7000 JOBS AND $120,000,000 USD ANNUAL ECONOMIC GROWTH IMPACT TO MISSISSIPPI ECONOMY. CANNABIS FUNDS "SHALL BE" TRANSFERRED, NO LATER THAN DECEMBER 31, WITHOUT 1.8% MONTHLY PENALTY, TO MEET VOTERS' MANDATORY IMPLEMENTATON, WITHOUT UNDUE BURDENS, REQUIREMENTS DEMANDED BY MISSISSIPPI'S VOTERS'. THE MISSISSIPPI CANNABIS FREEDOM ACT SHALL BE EFFECTIVE 30 DAYS AFTER GENERAL ELECTION SUPER MAJORITY VOTE. ALL FEE'S, LICENSES, MANDATORY CANNABIS CLASS FEE'S COLLECTED FROM EACH DEPARTMENT WILL BE DEPOSITED INTO THE MISSISSIPPI CANNABIS FREEDOM FUND FOR CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS, MANAGEMENT, COMPLIANCE, ENFORCEMENT, AND CANNABIS MARKETS RULES MAKINGS. RULES FOR THE MISSISSIPPI CANNABIS FREEDOM ACT "SHALL BE" SUBMITTED TO THE MISSISSIPPI CANNABIS COMMITTEE FOR FINAL APPROVAL BY DIRECTOR OF THE MISSISSIPPI CANNABIS FREEDOM FUND, FOR UP TO 24 MONTHS' TIME PERIOD. INITIATIVE MEASURE TEXT MISSISSIPPI CONSTITUTION 1890 SHALL BE AMENDED TO ADD: MISSISSIPPI STATE REVISED STATUTES, FOR THE MISSISSIPPI CANNABIS FREEDOM ACT FOR MEDICAL, ADULT, INDUSTRIAL HEMP, AND TAX COLLECTION FOR LEGALIZATION/DECRIMINALIZE: Be enacted by the people of the State of Mississippi Voters: Section 1. Title This Act "SHALL BE" titled "The Mississippi Cannabis Freedom Act" Section 2. Definitions In This Act, Unless the Context Otherwise Requires: "Cannabis" means also Hemp, Weed, Herd, Marijuana, Grass, Wax, Concentrate Extract, Hashish "Hemp" refers to industrial Cannabis varieties cultivated for clothing, oils, rope, energy food, non-drug use "Marijuana" means all parts of plant of the genus Cannabis whether growing or not, and the seeds
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to legalize and tax cannabis pursuant to the Mississippi Cannabis Freedom Act?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 52 would amend the Mississippi Constitution to include the Mississippi Cannabis Freedom Act ("the Act"). The Act legalizes cannabis for persons eighteen years of age and older, legalizes cannabis for medical purposes, authorizes the collection of taxes on cannabis, and includes various other definitions and mechanisms for implementation of the Act. For purposes of this measure, "cannabis" means hemp, weed, herd, marijuana, grass, wax, concentrate extract, and hashish.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Steven Griffin
Address: 50 Hoy Green Acres Circle Laurel, MS 39443
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Non-Public School Sports Teams
Original Filing:
Be it enacted by the People of the State of Mississippi that: Non-public school sports teams shall compete solely within the confounds of the Academy Activities Association of the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools. This organization was created solely for non-public institutions, and it is only logical that non-public institutions only compete within the Academy Activities Association's boundaries and not the Mississippi High School Activities Association's boundaries. This initiative shall not require any revenue for implementation.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should non-public school sports teams be required to compete solely within the confines of the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Non-public school sports teams are required to compete solely within the confines of the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools. This organization was created for non-public institutions and non-public institutions may not compete within the confines of the Mississippi High School Activities Association.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Hunter Fooshee
Address: 12585 Highway 9 South Randolph, Mississippi 38864
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
State Flag of Mississippi
Original Filing:
The Mississippi Constitution shall be amended to state: The State Flag of Mississippi is and shall be the flag adopted by the Legislature of 1894 and used continuously since then. Any proposed amendment or proposed changes to the State Flag of Mississippi shall conform to the provisions of Section 273 Amendment Process of the Mississippi constitution of 1890, as amended, as proposed by the Legislature or by initiative of the people. This measure, if adopted, will not have any effect on government revenue or require a reallocation of from currently-funded programs.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the current State Flag be adopted by constitutional amendment?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative No. 54 proposes to amend the Mississippi Constitution to recognize that the State Flag of Mississippi is and shall be the flag adopted by the Legislature of 1894 and used continuously since then. Any proposed amendment to the State Flag of Mississippi shall conform to the provisions of the amendment process found in Section 273 of the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, as proposed by the Legislature or by initiative of the people.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Kitsaa Jon Stevens
Address: 11501 Pinehurst Place West Gulfport, Mississippi 39503
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
The Flag for All Mississippians Act
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Confederate battle flag or any references to the Confederacy be removed from the State Flag?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 55 proposes to add the following language to the Mississippi Constitution: "The flag of the State of Mississippi shall not contain or include any reference to the Confederate army's battle flag or to the Confederacy." As an enforcement mechanism, a Mississippi citizen may petition the Mississippi Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus requiring the State, its political subdivisions, their agents, officers, or employees to comply with the amendment.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Sharon C. Brown
Address: 136 S. Green Avenue Jackson, MS 39203
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
State Flag of Mississippi
Original Filing:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the current State Flag be adopted by constitutional amendment?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative No. 56 proposes to amend the Mississippi Constitution to recognize that the State Flag of Mississippi is and shall be the flag adopted by the Legislature of 1894 and used continuously since then. Any proposed amendment to the State Flag of Mississippi shall conform to the provisions of the amendment process found in Section 273 of the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, as proposed by the Legislature or by initiative of the people.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Lorra Bond White
Address: 4095 Neil Collins Road Raymond, MS 39154
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Open Primary
Original Filing:
To the office of the Secretary of State of Mississippi: I, Doll Swindle, a registered voter of Wayne County, Mississippi, purpose the following initiative which is an issue that has not been addressed: Change the current voting election process for Primaries from closed primary to open primary. this will allow Republican, Democrat, and Independent voters to select the candidate they believe is best for each race without being excluded the opportunity to vote due to their political party affiliation. Each voter is then given the power to show that their vote counts regardless of their political party but their morals, values and beliefs will be heard. Having an open primary will also encourage more people to show up on election day. The candidate for each office will be able to run in whatever political party he or she chooses without having to crossover just to receive votes. Each ballot will have a list of Republican, Democrat, and Independent Candidate for each office. After the votes have been casted then the top Republican, Democrat and Independent Candidate will run in the November Election. This will take the edge off the candidates so that they will be able to run for their political party, but allow voters to choose who they want in office. The money used to fund this open primary format would come from the same funding mechanism that is currently in place for Mississippi elections and should actually reduce the cost associated with the election process in Mississippi.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the State adopt an open primary election process limited to Republican, Democrat, and Independent candidates?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 57 proposes to provide for an open primary election process. All primary ballots would include Republican, Democrat, and Independent Candidates. The Republican, Democrat, and Independent candidates receiving the highest number of votes would advance to the General Election.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Ms. Doll Swindle
Address: P.O. Box 1312 37 Johnny Paul Davis Road Waynesboro, MS 39367
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
The State Flag of Mississippi
Original Filing:
The Mississippi Constitution shall be amended to state: The State Flag of Mississippi is and shall be the flag adopted by the Legislature of 1894 and used continuously since then. Any proposed amendment or prosed changes to the State Flag of Mississippi shall conform to the provisions of Section 273 Amendment Process of the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, as amended, as proposed by the Legislature or by initiative of the people. Source of revenue required to implement the initiative: This measure, if adopted, will not have any effect on government revenue or require a reallocation of from currently-funded programs.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the current State Flag be adopted by constitutional amendment?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative No. 58 proposes to amend the Mississippi Constitution to recognize that the State Flag of Mississippi is and shall be the flag adopted by the Legislature of 1894 and used continuously since then. Any proposed amendment to the State Flag of Mississippi shall conform to the provisions of the amendment process found in Section 273 of the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, as proposed by the Legislature or by initiative of the people.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Mr. Rafael Sanchez
Address: P.O. Box 1551 McComb, MS 39648
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Repeal of Art. 4, Sec. 48, Miss. Const.
Original Filing:
TO REPEAL ARTICLE 4, § 48 of the Constitution of the State of Mississippi
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should Article 4, Section 48 of the Mississippi Constitution granting State legislators limited immunity from arrest be repealed?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative No. 59 proposes to repeal Article 4, Section 48 of the Mississippi Constitution which states: Senators and Representatives shall, in all cases, except treason, felony, theft, or breach of the peace, be privileged from arrest during the session of the Legislature, and for fifteen days before the commencement and after the termination of each session.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Chadwick L. Shook
Address: P.O. Box 2015 Hattiesburg, MS 39403
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Legalization of the use, taxation, cultivation and sale of industrial hemp and cannabis.
Original Filing:
MISSISSIPPI'S CONSTITUTION SHALL BE AMENDED TO ADD: ARTICLE 15,SECTION 286,AND ARTICLE FIVE,SECTION 124-A ARTICLE 15,SECTION 286:The people of Mississippideclare an end to the prohibition on cannabis, and fully legalize the use,taxation (if applicable),medical use,cultivation and sale of both industrial hemp, and cannabis (as defined by the Federal Government),only for adults who are 21years or older. Cannabis farmers growing plants that exceed Federal Government THC levels for industrial hemp must secure their crops from unauthorized harvesting. Cannabis,with THC levels exceeding those of industrial hemp will be regulated like alcohol no later than 240 days from enactment. Regulations will require an annual Mississippi Cannabis Sales license issued by any Mississippi County Circuit Clerk for a fee of no more than $1,000.00 to all adult residents who apply, and a $25.00 annual city or county governing locality fee to farm 25- 500 plants.Locality fees for cannabis farms with more than 500 plants will not exceed $1,000.00. A Mississippi sales tax of 7% will be collected upon every sale, except sales for cannabis sold for medicinal purposes and for industrial hemp which will be exempt from taxation. Sales License Fees and annual locality fees are to be retained by the locality. Owners of 24 or fewer cannabis plants are not considered farmers and are not required to pay a farming locality fee. The 7% cannabis sales tax, and the farming locality fees may be reviewed in 2025 and every 5 years thereafter.The cannabis sales tax can only be lowered;farming locality fees may be adjusted but only by 10%. All 7% sales taxes collected shall benefit Mississippi public schools,Mississippi Department of Human Services and Mississippi Department of Public Safety until 2025 when the distribution of funds may be reviewed. Cannabis-related crimes may be punished in a manner similar to, or to a lesser degree,than alcohol-related crimes. The legislature shall add a process for expunging the criminal record of any person convicted of non-violent cannabis possession, sales and manufacture against the State of Mississippi. Industrial hemp shall be regulated by the Dept. of Agriculture.The Dept. of Health shall be responsible for a state-wide dispensary program and begin the issuing of identification for medicinal cannabis patients within 180 days from enactment.The Chancery Courts of this state shall have the power to enforce this section with injunctive relief. ARTICLE FIVE,SECTION 124-A:The Governor shall pardon persons convicted of non-violent cannabis violations against the State of Mississippi, both prior and current, within 60 days of receipt of their written request,as long as they meet the qualifications.The Chancery courts of this state shall have the power to enforce this section with injunctive relief. Amount and Source of Revenue Required to Implement Ballot Initiative: The estimated gross income from the 7%cannabis sales tax is $17 million dollars for the first 7 months of sales. INTENT:It is the intent of this Amendment to the Mississippi Constitution to legalize the use,cultivation and sale of cannabis and industrial hemp for adults and regulate it like alcohol. Mississippi will be forgiving.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to legalize the use, taxation, cultivation and sale of industrial hemp and cannabis.
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative No. 60 proposes to legalize the use, taxation, cultivation and sale of industrial hemp and cannabis for persons 21 or older. Cannabis crimes would be punishable in a manner similar to alcohol related crimes. The initiative requires the Legislature to adopt an expungement process for non-violent cannabis crimes and requires the Governor to pardon non-violent cannabis offenders. The initiative delegates enforcement authority to the Chancery Courts.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: David R. Singletary
Address: P.O. Box 2363 Jackson, MS 39225
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
1894 State Flag as the official State Flag
Original Filing:
There shall only be one official State Flag for the one State of Mississippi. That flag shall only be the “1894” flag, adopted by referendum on April 17, 2001, and it shall be flown at the principal installations of all State supported institutions, State agencies and political subdivisions. Revenue Source required: None. The flag is already official and has been in use since 1894.
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the current State Flag be adopted by constitutional amendment?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 62 proposes to amend the Mississippi Constitution to establish the 1894 flag as the one official State Flag for the State of Mississippi, and require that the flag be flown at the principal installations of all State supported institutions, State agencies and political subdivisions.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: DeBorah Simpson
Address: P.O. Box 7446 Gulfport, MS 39506
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Legalization of the use, taxation, cultivation and sale of industrial hemp and cannabis.
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to legalize the use, taxation, cultivation and sale of cannabis and industrial hemp.
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 63 proposes to legalize the use, taxation, cultivation and sale of industrial hemp and cannabis for adults 21 or older. Cannabis crimes would be punishable in a manner similar to alcohol related crimes. The initiative requires the Legislature to adopt an expungement process for qualified non-violent cannabis crimes and requires the Governor to pardon non-violent cannabis offenders upon request. The initiative delegates enforcement authority to the Chancery Courts.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: David R. Singletary
Address: 554 North Church Street Florence, Mississippi 39073
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Medical Marijuana
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should Mississippi allow qualified patients with debilitating medical conditions, as certified by Mississippi licensed physicians, to use medical marijuana?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 65 proposes to amend the Mississippi Constitution to allow qualified patients with debilitating medical conditions, as certified by Mississippi licensed physicians, to use medical marijuana. This amendment would allow medical marijuana to be provided only by licensed treatment centers. The Mississippi State Department of Health would regulate and enforce the provisions of this amendment.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Ms. Ashley Ann Durval
Address: PO Box 2592 Ridgeland, MS 39158
Status:
Filed
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Redistricting
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should legislative districts be divided into single member districts with municipalities and counties divided to the minimum extent practicable?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 66 proposes to amend the Mississippi Constitution to require the apportionment of legislative districts to keep single member districts, to divide districts into substantially equal population, and to keep counties and municipalities, to the extent practicable, from being divided into separate districts.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Ms. Elaine M. Talbott
Address: 305 Pebble Creek Drive Madison, Mississippi 39110
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Legalization of Cannabis
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to incorporate the “Mississippi Cannabis Freedom Act”?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 67 proposes to amend the Mississippi Constitution to include the Mississippi Cannabis Freedom Act (“the Act”). The Act appears to legalize cannabis for persons eighteen years of age and older and for medical purposes, to authorize the collection of taxes on cannabis, and includes various uncertain definitions and mechanisms for implementation. The stated mission is “to spread Mississippi cannabis across Mississippi, across the nation, and across international boards for cannabis freedom.”
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Mr. Steven B. Griffin
Address: P.O Box 994 Laurel, Mississippi 39441
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Legalizaton of Cannabis
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to legalize and regulate cannabis and allow non-violent convicted felons to carry firearms?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 68 proposes to legalize the use, cultivation, sale and taxation of cannabis and tetrahydrocannabinol for adults 18 or older. The initiative requires the Legislature to provide for the expungement of non-violent cannabis crimes and the expungement of possession of a firearm by a felon with non-iolent charges. The initiative further provides that “non-violent felons shall be able to get their rights to bear arms immediately.”
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Mr. Jason Stull
Address: 7607 Rockingham Drive Southaven, Mississippi 38671
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Open Primary Election Process
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the State adopt an open primary election process limited to Republican, Democrat, and Independent candidates?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 69 proposes to provide for an open primary election process. All primary ballots would include Republican, Democrat, and Independent candidates. The Republican, Democrat, and Independent candidates receiving the highest number of votes would advance to the General Election.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Ms. Doll Swindle
Address: P.O. Box 1312 Waynesboro, MS 32367
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Open Primary Elections
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the State adopt an open primary election system for the election of county offices, justice court judges and district attorneys?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 70 proposes to provide for an open primary election for county offices, justice court judges, and district attorneys on the general election day. If no candidate receives more than fifty percent of the votes cast, there would be a runoff election between the two candidates receiving the most votes. No reference to political party affiliation would appear on the ballot for candidates for justice court judge, constable or district attorney.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Mr. Joseph L. Warren
Address: P.O. Box 42 Mt. Olive, MS 39119
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Pre-trial Diversion for Individuals with Mental Illness
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Constitution be amended to provide social enhancement programs for interactions between individuals with mental illness and law enforcement?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
The stated purpose of Initiative Measure No. 71 is to establish the Mental Illness Social Enhancement program, a pre-trial diversion or probation program for individuals with mental illness or disability who have been charged with or convicted of crimes that do not include any form of physical contact. Participants must seek treatment, be a productive member of society, and pay additional fines. The initiative prohibits employers from discriminating against participants.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Ms. Mary Ben
Address: 4959 Laurel Oak Drive Jackson, Mississippi 39212
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
State Flag of Mississippi
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to change the state flag from the 1894 Flag to the Mississippi Hospitality Flag?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure No. 72 proposes to amend the Mississippi Constitution to change the current Mississippi flag from the 1894 Flag to the Mississippi Hospitality Flag. This initiative requires that the Mississippi Hospitality Flag be flown at all State supported institutions, agencies, divisions, and organization. Upon passage, all previous versions of the state flag shall be taken down.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Mr. Matthew Brinson
Address: 51 Cambrooke Hattiesburg, MS 39402
Status:
Active
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
State Flag
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
N/A
Proposed Ballot Summary:
N/A
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Lauren Smith
Address: 438 Country Road Tupelo, MS 38801
Status:
Expired
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
State Flag of Mississippi
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should an election be held to choose the official flag of the State of Mississippi, among four specific flag designs?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure Number 74 seeks to amend the Mississippi Constitution to require the Legislature to provide that the official flag of Mississippi shall be chosen at the next statewide general election from the following designs: 1894 Mississippi Flag; Bicentennial Flag with State Seal; “New Magnolia/In God We Trust” design from the November 2020 ballot; and “Stennis Flag” with “In God We Trust.” The design receiving the most votes would become the official state flag.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Ms. Lauren Smith
Address: 438 County Road 659 Tupelo, MS 38801
Status:
Active
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Term Limits
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should Mississippi’s state and local public officials and U.S. Representatives and Senators be limited to serving two successive terms?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure Number 75 seeks to amend the Mississippi Constitution to limit appointed and elected state and local officials, United States Representatives, and United States Senators to two successive terms in office. Service prior to January 1, 2021 would not be counted when determining the number of successive terms served by United States Representatives and United States Senators.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Mr. Godfrey Garner
Address: 309 Jackson Avenue Edwards, MS 39066-9092
Status:
Active
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Expansion of Medicaid
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should Mississippi expand Medicaid eligibility to include adults ages 18-65 with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure Number 76 seeks to amend the Mississippi Constitution to require Mississippi to provide medical assistance, under Mississippi’s Medicaid program, to individuals between the ages of 18 and 65 with income not exceeding 133% of the federal poverty level, plus 5% of the federal poverty level for the applicable family size, under the income methodology provided by applicable federal law, and who meet applicable non-financial eligibility conditions for Medicaid benefits under federal law.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Dr. John Gaudet
Address: 605 Mackwood Dr. Hattiesburg, MS 39402
Status:
Active
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Legalization of Marijuana and Cannabis
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Constitution be amended to legalize and decriminalize certain possession, use, and cultivation of cannabis, hemp, and related derivatives?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure 77 would decriminalize certain cannabis/hemp possession, use (by adults and minors), and cultivation; authorize studies and a 7% sales tax on cannabis/hemp; authorize cannabis/hemp smoking wherever tobacco smoking is permitted; preempt local regulation; restrict local zoning; require release of non-violent prisoners incarcerated for cannabis-associated offenses and expungement of such convictions; authorize reparations; and override Initiative 65. It would also require creation of certain entities to carry out the provisions of the measure.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Dr. David Allen
Address: 13013 Hwy 613 Moss Point, MS 39562
Status:
Active
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).
Subject Matter:
Early Voting
Original Filing:
See attached measure
Proposed Ballot Title:
Should the Mississippi Constitution be amended to require t least ten days, including Saturdays, of early voting before every election?
Proposed Ballot Summary:
Initiative Measure 78 would require no fewer than ten days of early voting, including two Saturdays, and additional early voting locations based on the number of registered voters. Early voting ballots shall be saved using a system that allows ballot to be recounted for election certification and audit. Early voting ballots shall be added to election day ballots and announced as one result. The initiative delegates regulatory authority to the Secretary of State.
Initiative Petition:
N/A
Sponsor: Rep. Hester Jackson-McCray
Address: 3420 Laurelwood Dr. Horn Lake, MS 38637
Status:
Active
Town Meeting Location:
N/A
Initiative Information:
The official ballot title and ballot summary for an initiative measure are prepared by the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Initiative measures are valid for one year. During this one-year period, a petition may be circulated to place the measure on the next statewide general election ballot to allow the voters of Mississippi to determine whether the measure should become a part of the Mississippi Constitution. According to Mississippi law, for an initiative measure to be placed on the ballot, a minimum of 106,190 certified signatures must be gathered, with at least 21,238 certified signatures from each of the five congressional districts as they existed in the year 2000. This required number of signatures represents twelve percent (12%) of the total number of votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial general election. Signatures must be certified by county circuit clerks as belonging to registered voters in Mississippi. A completed petition should be filed with Secretary of State, together with a filing fee of $500.00. For more information on the initiative process in Mississippi, consult the Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Section 273, and Mississippi Code Annotated §§ 23-17-1 through 23-17-61 (1972).