Bill > HB182

This bill aims to prohibit circuit court judges from allowing political candidates for judicial positions, including Supreme Court justices, Court of Appeals judges, circuit judges, and chancery court judges, to speak to the public during court terms. The legislation modifies Section 23-15-973 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, removing the previous requirement that circuit court judges provide reasonable time and opportunity for judicial candidates to address the public during court terms. The bill maintains existing provisions that prevent judicial candidates from aligning themselves with political factions or parties during election campaigns, and it establishes that any candidate who deliberately violates these rules may forfeit their nomination or election. The prohibition is intended to emphasize the non-political nature of judicial offices and maintain the impartiality of judges by minimizing political affiliations or obligations. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving time for courts and candidates to adapt to the new restrictions.

Government Affairs

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0182.xml