MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

1999 Regular Session

To: Appropriations

By: Representatives Banks, Evans

AN ACT TO REMOVE THE "STARS AND BARS" FROM THE MISSISSIPPI STATE FLAG; TO PROVIDE A STUDY COMMITTEE TO RESEARCH AND PROVIDE FOR A REPLACEMENT OF THE "STARS AND BARS" ON THE STATE FLAG; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:

SECTION 1. It is declared to be the intention of the Legislature that the "stars and bars" should no longer be a part of the Mississippi state flag after a replacement design has been approved and proclaimed by the Governor of Mississippi.

SECTION 2. There is created a study committee to consider and approve a replacement of the "stars and bars" in the canton corner of the Mississippi state flag. The study committee shall consist of nine (9) residents of the state who are knowledgeable in Mississippi history. The Speaker of the House of Representatives shall appoint five (5) residents of the state to the committee and the President of the Senate shall appoint four (4) residents of the state to the committee. None of the committee members shall be elected officials of the state.

The committee shall meet as soon after this act becomes effective as is convenient for its members. The committee shall meet no more than once per month and shall continue to meet no longer than one (1) year from the date of its first meeting. There shall be no per diem compensation, as provided in Section 25-3-69, for the members of the committee. Travel expenses, meals, lodging and other necessary expenses incurred by the members of the committee in furtherance of the provisions of this act shall be paid pursuant to Section 25-3-41.

When the committee makes its determination as to the replacement of the "stars and bars," it shall present its recommendations to the Governor. If the Governor approves the recommendations, he shall sign a proclamation declaring the new state flag.

SECTION 3. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 1999.