Bill Text: MS SB2768 | 2025 | Regular Session | Introduced

Mississippi Senate Bill 2768

Introduced

Bill Title: Judicial redistricting; revise provisions related to chancery and circuit courts.

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 1-0)

Status: (Introduced) 2025-01-30 - Title Suff Do Pass [SB2768 Detail]

Download: Mississippi-2025-SB2768-Introduced.html

MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

2025 Regular Session

To: Judiciary, Division A

By: Senator(s) Wiggins

Senate Bill 2768

AN ACT TO REDISTRICT THE CIRCUIT AND CHANCERY COURT DISTRICTS PURSUANT TO SECTION 152 OF ARTICLE 6 OF THE MISSISSIPPI CONSTITUTION OF 1890 FOR THE GENERAL ELECTION FOR JUDICIAL OFFICERS TO BE CONDUCTED IN NOVEMBER 2026; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-9, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD COVINGTON COUNTY, SIMPSON COUNTY, AND SMITH COUNTY TO THE SECOND CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO PROVIDE TWO CHANCELLORS WITH RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SECOND CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-11, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD CARROLL COUNTY TO THE THIRD CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO REMOVE DESOTO COUNTY FROM THE THIRD CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO DELETE THE SUBDISTRICTS FROM THE THIRD CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-13, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT THERE SHALL BE TWO CHANCELLORS FOR THE THIRD CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-15, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE THE CURRENT COUNTIES FROM THE FOURTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO ADD FORREST COUNTY, PERRY COUNTY, AND STONE COUNTY TO THE FOURTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-21, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE CARROLL COUNTY FROM THE SIXTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-23, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD SUNFLOWER COUNTY TO THE SEVENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO CONFORM THE SUBDISTRICTS IN THE SEVENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT TO THE ADDITION OF SUNFLOWER COUNTY; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-27, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE STONE COUNTY FROM THE EIGHTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO REVISE THE SUBDISTRICTS OF THE NINTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-31, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT THERE SHALL BE TWO CHANCELLORS IN THE NINTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-33, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE SUNFLOWER COUNTY FROM THE NINTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-35, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD JEFFERSON DAVIS COUNTY AND WALTHALL COUNTY TO THE TENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO REMOVE FORREST COUNTY AND PERRY COUNTY FROM THE TENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-36, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE THE RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS OF THE CHANCELLORS ELECTED FROM THE TENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-41, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD DESOTO COUNTY TO THE THIRTEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO PROVIDE THAT THERE SHALL BE THREE CHANCELLORS FOR THE THIRTEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-47, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD LAWRENCE COUNTY TO THE FIFTEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO PROVIDE THAT THERE SHALL BE TWO CHANCELLORS FOR THE FIFTEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-49, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE GEORGE COUNTY AND GREENE COUNTY FROM THE SIXTEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-50, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT THERE SHALL BE FOUR CHANCELLORS FOR THE SIXTEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-51, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD AMITE COUNTY, FRANKLIN COUNTY AND PIKE COUNTY TO THE SEVENTEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO CREATE SUBDISTRICTS IN THE SEVENTEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-5-55, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD GEORGE COUNTY AND GREENE COUNTY TO THE NINETEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO PROVIDE THAT THERE SHALL BE TWO CHANCELLORS FOR THE NINETEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO PROVIDE RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE ELECTION OF CHANCELLORS FOR THE NINETEENTH CHANCERY COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-15, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE THE CURRENT COUNTIES AND SUBDISTRICTS FROM THE FOURTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO ADD DESOTO COUNTY TO THE FOURTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-17, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT THERE SHALL BE THREE CIRCUIT JUDGES FOR THE FOURTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-21, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD CLAIBORNE COUNTY, JEFFERSON COUNTY AND PIKE COUNTY TO THE SIXTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO CREATE SUBDISTRICTS IN THE SIXTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-29, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD YAZOO COUNTY TO THE NINTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO CREATE SUBDISTRICTS IN THE NINTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-31, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE WAYNE COUNTY FROM THE TENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-33, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD SUNFLOWER COUNTY TO THE ELEVENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO DELETE THE SUBDISTRICTS FROM THE ELEVENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-34, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CONFORM TO THE DELETION OF THE SUBDISTRICTS FROM THE ELEVENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-39, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE PIKE COUNTY AND WALTHALL COUNTY FROM THE FOURTEENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO ADD COPIAH COUNTY AND LAWRENCE COUNTY TO THE FOURTEENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-41, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD WALTHALL COUNTY TO THE FIFTEENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO REMOVE LAWRENCE COUNTY FROM THE FIFTEENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-42, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE THE RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE JUDGES ELECTED FROM THE FIFTEENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT TO CONFORM TO THE REMOVAL OF LAWRENCE COUNTY; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-47, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD GEORGE COUNTY, GREENE COUNTY, AND WAYNE COUNTY TO THE EIGHTEENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO PROVIDE THAT THERE SHALL BE TWO CIRCUIT JUDGES IN THE EIGHTEENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO PROVIDE RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE JUDGES ELECTED FOR THE EIGHTEENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-49, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE GEORGE COUNTY AND GREENE COUNTY FROM THE NINETEENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO DELETE LANGUAGE GOVERNING THE AMOUNT OF LOCAL CONTRIBUTION TO SUPPORT THE NINETEENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTION 9-7-55, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REMOVE YAZOO COUNTY FROM THE TWENTY-FIRST CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO ADD LEFLORE COUNTY AND WASHINGTON COUNTY TO THE TWENTY-FIRST CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO PROVIDE THAT THERE SHALL BE THREE CIRCUIT JUDGES FOR THE TWENTY-FIRST CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTIONS 9-7-57, 9-7-63 AND 9-7-64, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH PROVIDE FOR THE TWENTY-FIRST AND TWENTY-THIRD CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICTS, TO PROVIDE THAT THE SECTIONS SHALL REPEAL ON A CERTAIN DATE; TO PROVIDE THAT REVISED PRECINCTS ARE FROM THE 2010 CENSUS; TO REQUIRE THE STANDING JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON REAPPORTIONMENT TO ASSIST THE COUNTIES IN IDENTIFYING THE BOUNDARIES OF SUBDISTRICTS; TO AMEND SECTION 25-31-5, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE AN ADDITIONAL ASSISTANT DISTRICT ATTORNEY TO THE TWENTY-FIRST CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL ASSISTANT DISTRICT ATTORNEYS TO THE SEVENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT THAT WERE AUTHORIZED IN SECTION 25-31-37 WHICH IS REPEALED BY THIS ACT; TO PROVIDE TWO ADDITIONAL ASSISTANT DISTRICT ATTORNEYS TO THE CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT FOR DESOTO COUNTY; TO AMEND SECTION 25-31-10, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THE TWENTY-FIRST CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT WITH AN ADDITIONAL CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR; TO PROVIDE AN ADDITIONAL CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR TO THE SEVENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT THAT WAS AUTHORIZED IN SECTION 25-31-37 WHICH IS REPEALED BY THIS ACT; TO PROVIDE THAT REVISED PRECINCTS ARE FROM THE 2020 CENSUS; TO PROVIDE SENIOR FULL-TIME LEGAL ASSISTANTS IN THE ELEVENTH AND SIXTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICTS FOR A ONE-YEAR PERIOD; TO PROVIDE THE PROCEDURE TO FILL THE OFFICES OF DISTRICT ATTORNEY AND THE JUDICIAL OFFICES CREATED BY VIRTUE OF THIS ACT; TO REPEAL SECTION 25-31-37, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH AUTHORIZES THE APPOINTMENT OF ASSISTANT DISTRICT ATTORNEYS AND A CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR FOR THE SEVENTH CIRCUIT COURT DISTRICT; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of the Legislature under Section 152 of Article 6 of the Mississippi Constitution of 1890 to redistrict the circuit and chancery court districts after each federal decennial census; and

WHEREAS, the Legislature has investigated the state of the trial courts and the trial court districts and has considered the needs of the state according to all the criteria imposed by the Constitution and by general law; NOW, THEREFORE,

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

SECTION 1. Section 9-5-9, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:] 9-5-9. The Second Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Jasper County;

(b) Newton County; and

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-9. (1) The Second Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Covington County;

(b) Jasper County;

(d) Scott County;

(e) Simpson County; and

(f) Smith County.

(2) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Second Chancery Court District. The two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two." The chancellor to fill Place One must reside in either Jasper County, Newton County or Scott County, and the chancellor to fill Place Two must reside in either Covington County, Simpson County, or Smith County.

SECTION 2. Section 9-5-11, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-11. (1) The Third Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) DeSoto County;

(b) Grenada County;

(d) Panola County;

(e) Tate County; and

(f) Yalobusha County.

(2) The Third Chancery Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 3-1 shall consist of DeSoto County.

(b) Subdistrict 3-2 shall consist of Grenada County, Montgomery County, Panola County, Tate County and Yalobusha County.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-11. The Third Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Carroll County;

(b) Grenada County;

(d) Panola County;

(e) Tate County; and

(f) Yalobusha County.

SECTION 3. Section 9-5-13, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-13. (1) There shall be three (3) chancellors for the Third Chancery Court District.

(2) (a) The chancellor of Subdistrict 3-1 shall be elected from DeSoto County. The two (2) chancellors of Subdistrict 3-2 shall be elected from Grenada County, Montgomery County, Panola County, Tate County and Yalobusha County.

(b) For purposes of appointment and election, the three (3) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct. The chancellorship in Subdistrict 3-1 shall be denominated only as "Place One," and the chancellorships in Subdistrict 3-2 shall be denominated only as "Place Two" and "Place Three."

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-13. (1) There shall be * * * ~~four (4)~~ two (2) chancellors for the Third Chancery Court District.

(2) * * *

The * * * ~~four (4)~~ two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One * * *," and "Place Two * * *~~," "Place Three" and "Place Four~~." * * *

SECTION 4. Section 9-5-15, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-15. (1) The Fourth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Amite County;

(b) Franklin County;

(d) Walthall County.

(2) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Fourth Chancery Court District. The two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-15. (1) The Fourth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Forrest County;

(b) Perry County; and

SECTION 5. Section 9-5-21, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-21. The Sixth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Attala County;

(b) Carroll County;

(d) Kemper County;

(e) Neshoba County; and

(f) Winston County.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-21. The Sixth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Attala County;

(b) Choctaw County;

(d) Neshoba County; and

(e) Winston County.

SECTION 6. Section 9-5-23, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-23. (1) The Seventh Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Bolivar County;

(b) Coahoma County;

(d) Quitman County;

(e) Tallahatchie County; and

(f) Tunica County.

(2) The Seventh Chancery Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 7-1 shall consist of Bolivar County and Coahoma County;

(b) Subdistrict 7-2 shall consist of Leflore County, Quitman County, Tallahatchie County and Tunica County.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-23. (1) The Seventh Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Bolivar County;

(b) Coahoma County;

(d) Quitman County;

(e) Sunflower County;

(f) Tallahatchie County; and

(g) Tunica County.

(2) The Seventh Chancery Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 7-1 shall consist of Bolivar County and Coahoma County;

(b) Subdistrict 7-2 shall consist of Leflore County, Quitman County, Sunflower County, Tallahatchie County and Tunica County.

SECTION 7. Section 9-5-27, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-27. The Eighth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Hancock County;

(b) Harrison County; and

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-27. The Eighth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Hancock County; and

(b) Harrison County.

SECTION 8. Section 9-5-31, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-31. (1) The Ninth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Humphreys County;

(b) Issaquena County;

(d) Sunflower County;

(e) Warren County; and

(f) Washington County.

(2) The Ninth Chancery Court District shall be divided into three (3) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 9-1 shall consist of the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Sunflower County: Boyer-Linn, Drew, Fairview-Hale, Indianola 2 East*, Indianola 3 North*, Indianola 3 Northeast*, Indianola 3 South*, Rome, Ruleville, Ruleville North and Sunflower Plantation; and

(ii) Washington County: American Legion, Brent Center, Buster Brown Community Center, Darlove Baptist Church*, Elks Club, Extension Building, Grace Methodist Church*, Greenville Industrial College, Leland Health Department Clinic, Leland Rotary Club, Metcalf City Hall and Potter House Church.

(b) Subdistrict 9-2 shall consist of Humphreys County and the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Sunflower County: Doddsville, Indianola 2 East*, Indianola 2 West, Indianola 3 North*, Indianola 3 Northeast*, Indianola 3 South*, Indianola Southeast, Inverness, Moorhead, Sunflower 3 and Sunflower 4; and

(ii) Washington County: Arcola City Hall, Christ Wesleyan Methodist Church, Darlove Baptist Church*, Glen Allan Health Clinic, Grace Methodist Church*, Hollandale City Hall, St. James Episcopal Church, Swiftwater Baptist Church, Tampa Drive and Ward's Recreation Center.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-31. (1) The Ninth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Humphreys County;

(b) Issaquena County;

(d) Warren County; and

(e) Washington County.

(2) The Ninth Chancery Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 9-1 shall consist of Washington County and Humphreys County; and

(b) Subdistrict 9-2 shall consist of Issaquena County, Sharkey County and Warren County.

SECTION 9. Section 9-5-33, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-33. There shall be three (3) chancellors for the Ninth Chancery Court District. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from each subdistrict.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-33. There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Ninth Chancery Court District. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 10. Section 9-5-35, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-35. The Tenth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Forrest County;

(b) Lamar County;

(d) Pearl River County; and

(e) Perry County.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-35. The Tenth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Jefferson Davis County;

(b) Lamar County;

(d) Pearl River County; and

(e) Walthall County.

SECTION 11. Section 9-5-36, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-36. (1) There shall be four (4) chancellors for the Tenth Chancery Court District.

(2) The four (4) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two," "Place Three" and "Place Four." The chancellor to fill Place One and Place Four may be a resident of any county in the district. The chancellor to fill Place Two must be a resident of Lamar, Marion, Pearl River or Perry County. The chancellor to fill Place Three must be a resident of Forrest County. Election of the four (4) offices of chancellor shall be by election to be held in every county within the Tenth Chancery Court District.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-36. (1) There shall be four (4) chancellors for the Tenth Chancery Court District.

SECTION 12. Section 9-5-41, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-41. (1) The Thirteenth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Covington County;

(b) Jefferson Davis County;

(d) Simpson County; and

(e) Smith County.

(2) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Thirteenth Chancery Court District. The two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-41. (1) The Thirteenth Chancery Court District shall be DeSoto County.

(2) There shall be three (3) chancellors for the Thirteenth Chancery Court District. The three (3) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two" and "Place Three."

SECTION 13. Section 9-5-47, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-47. The Fifteenth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Copiah County; and

(b) Lincoln County.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-47. (1) The Fifteenth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Copiah County;

(b) Lawrence County; and

(2) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Fifteenth Chancery Court District. The two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 14. Section 9-5-49, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-49. The Sixteenth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) George County;

(b) Greene County; and

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-49. The Sixteenth Chancery Court District shall be Jackson County.

SECTION 15. Section 9-5-50, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-50. (1) There shall be three (3) chancellors for the Sixteenth Chancery Court District.

(2) The three (3) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two" and "Place Three."

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-50. (1) There shall be four (4) chancellors for the Sixteenth Chancery Court District.

(2) The four (4) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two," "Place Three," and "Place Four."

SECTION 16. Section 9-5-51, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-51. (1) The Seventeenth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Adams County;

(b) Claiborne County;

(d) Wilkinson County.

(2) The Seventeenth Chancery Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 17-1 shall consist of Claiborne County, Jefferson County, and the following precincts in Adams County: Airport Carpenter*, Convention Center*, Foster Mound, Maryland*, Northside School, Palestine, Pine Ridge, Thompson and Washington*.

(b) Subdistrict 17-2 shall consist of Wilkinson County and the following precincts in Adams County: Beau Pre, Bellemont, By-Pass Fire Station, Carpenter*, Concord, Convention Center*, Courthouse, Duncan Park, Kingston, Liberty Park, Maryland*, Morgantown, Oakland and Washington*.

(3) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Seventeenth Chancery Court District. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from each subdistrict.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-51. (1) The Seventeenth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Adams County;

(b) Amite County;

(d) Franklin County;

(e) Jefferson County;

(f) Pike County; and

(g) Wilkinson County.

(2) The Seventeenth Chancery Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 17-1 shall consist of Adams County, Claiborne County, Jefferson County, and Wilkinson County.

(b) Subdistrict 17-2 shall consist of Amite County, Franklin County, and Pike County.

(3) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Seventeenth Chancery Court District. One (1) chancellor shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 17. Section 9-5-55, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:] 9-5-55. The Nineteenth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Jones County; and

(b) Wayne County.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-5-55. (1) The Nineteenth Chancery Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) George County;

(b) Greene County;

(d) Wayne County.

(2) There shall be two (2) chancellors for the Nineteenth Chancery Court District. The two (2) chancellorships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two." The chancellor to fill Place One must reside in Jones County, and the chancellor to fill Place Two must reside in either George County, Greene County, or Wayne County.

SECTION 18. Section 9-7-15, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-15. (1) The Fourth Circuit Court District shall be composed of the following counties:

(a) Leflore County;

(b) Sunflower County; and

(2) The Fourth Circuit Court District shall be divided into four (4) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 4-1 shall consist of the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Leflore County: Minter City, North Greenwood, Money, Northeast Greenwood, Schlater, West Greenwood, Mississippi Valley State University and Southeast Greenwood Precincts; and

(ii) Sunflower County: Ruleville, Rome, Sunflower Plantation, Drew, Doddsville, Boyer-Linn, Fairview-Hale and Ruleville North Precincts.

(b) Subdistrict 4-2 shall consist of the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Sunflower County: Indianola 1, Sunflower, Indianola 3 North, Indianola 3 South and Indianola 3 Northeast Precincts; and

(ii) Washington County: Extension Building, Faith Lutheran Church, American Legion, Metcalfe City Hall, Elks Club, Leland Health Department Clinic, Leland Light and Water Plant and Greenville Industrial College Precincts.

(i) Leflore County: East Greenwood Sub-A, East Greenwood Sub-B, Central Greenwood, North Itta Bena, South Itta Bena, Southwest Greenwood, Rising Sun, Sidon, Morgan City, Swiftown and South Greenwood Precincts;

(ii) Sunflower County: Moorhead, Inverness, Indianola 2 West and Indianola 2 East Precincts; and

(iii) Washington County: Arcola City Hall, Hollandale City Hall, Darlove Baptist Church and Mangelardi Bourbon Store Precincts.

(d) Subdistrict 4-4 shall consist of the following precincts in Washington County: St. James Episcopal Church, Swiftwater Baptist Church, Glen Allan Health Clinic, Italian Club, Ward's Recreation Center, Buster Brown Community Center, Avon Health Center, Kapco Company, Brent Center, William Percy Library and Grace Methodist Church Precincts.

(3) The local contributions required for the maintenance of the Fourth Circuit Court District shall be paid on a pro rata basis each by Leflore, Sunflower and Washington Counties.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-15. The Fourth Circuit Court District shall be DeSoto County.

SECTION 19. Section 9-7-17, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-17. There shall be four (4) circuit judges for the Fourth Circuit Court District. One (1) circuit judge shall be elected from each subdistrict.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-17. (1) There shall be three (3) circuit judges for the Fourth Circuit Court District.

(2) For the purposes of appointment and election, the three (3) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated as "Place One," "Place Two" and "Place Three."

SECTION 20. Section 9-7-21, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-21. (1) The Sixth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Adams County;

(b) Amite County;

(d) Wilkinson County.

(2) The Sixth Circuit Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 6-1 shall consist of Wilkinson County and the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Adams County: Airport, By-Pass Fire Station, Carpenter, Concord*, Courthouse*, Duncan Park*, Foster Mound, Maryland*, Northside School, Pine Ridge, Thompson and Washington*; and

(ii) Amite County: Ariel, Berwick, Crosby, East Centreville, East Gloster*, Gloster*, Homochitto, South Liberty* and Street.

(b) Subdistrict 6-2 shall consist of Franklin County and the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Adams County: Beau Pre, Bellemont, Concord*, Convention Center, Courthouse*, Duncan Park*, Kingston, Liberty Park, Maryland*, Morgantown, Oakland, Palestine and Washington*; and

(ii) Amite County: Amite River, East Fork, East Gloster*, East Liberty, Gloster*, Liberty, New Zion, Oneil, Riceville, Smithdale, South Liberty*, Tangipahoa, Tickfaw, Walls and Zion Hills.

(3) There shall be two (2) judges for the Sixth Circuit Court District. The two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct. One (1) judge shall be elected from each subdistrict.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-21. (1) The Sixth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Adams County;

(b) Amite County;

(d) Franklin County;

(e) Jefferson County;

(f) Pike County; and

(g) Wilkinson County.

(2) The Sixth Circuit Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 6-1 shall consist of Claiborne County, Jefferson County, Wilkinson County and the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Adams County: Airport, By-Pass Firestation, Carpenter, Concord, Convention Center, Foster Mound, Maryland, Morgantown, Northside School, Oakland, Pine Ridge, and Washington; and

(ii) Franklin County: Antioch, Bad Bayou, Bude, Cains, Eddiceton, Hamburg, Lucien, McCall Creek, Meadville, Pine Grove, and Whittington.

(b) Subdistrict 6-2 shall consist of Amite County and Pike County and the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Adams County: Beau Pre, Bellemont, Courthouse, Duncan Park, Kingston, Liberty Park, and Palestine; and

(ii) Franklin County: Knoxville, Roxie, and Wesley Chapel.

(3) There shall be two (2) judges for the Sixth Circuit Court District. The two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct. One (1) judge shall be elected from each subdistrict.

SECTION 21. Section 9-7-29, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-29. (1) The Ninth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Issaquena County;

(b) Sharkey County; and

(2) The Ninth Circuit Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 9-1 shall consist of Issaquena County, Sharkey County and the following precincts in Warren County: 3-61 Store*, American Legion Hall, Auditorium, Brunswick, Cedar Grove*, Kings*, Number 7 Fire Station*, St. Aloysius and Vicksburg Junior High School*.

(b) Subdistrict 9-2 shall consist of the following precincts in Warren County: 3-61 Store*, Beechwood, Bovina, Cedar Grove*, Culkin, Elks Lodge, Goodrum, Jett, Kings*, Moose Lodge, Number 7 Fire Station*, Oak Ridge, Plumbers Hall, Redwood, Tingleville, Vicksburg Junior High School*, YMCA and Yokena.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-29. (1) The Ninth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Issaquena County;

(b) Sharkey County;

(d) Yazoo County.

(2) The Ninth Circuit Court District shall be divided into two (2) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 9-1 shall consist of Issaquena County and Sharkey County, and the following precincts in the following counties:

(i) Warren County: American Legion Hall, Auditorium, Brunswick, Cedar Grove, Cherry Street, Jett, Kings, Number 7 Fire Station and St. Aloysius; and

(ii) Yazoo County: 3-1 West, 3-2 East, 3-3 Jonestown, Holly Bluff, Lake City, Ward 4, and Ward 5.

(b) Subdistrict 9-2 shall consist of:

(i) The following precincts in Warren County: 3-61 Store, Beechwood, Bovina, Culkin, Elks Lodge, Goodrum, Lee Road, Moose Lodge, Oakland, Plumbers Hall, Redwood, Tingleville, YMCA and Yokena; and

(ii) The following precincts in Yazoo County: 3-4 South, Benton, Carter, Center Ridge, Deasonville, District 4 Ward 2, Dover, East Bentonia, East Midway, Eden, Fairview, Free Run, Fugates, Harttown, Mechanicsburg, Robinette, Satartia, Tinsley, Valley, Ward 2, West Bentonia, West Midway and Zion.

SECTION 22. Section 9-7-31, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-31. The Tenth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Clarke County;

(b) Kemper County;

(d) Wayne County.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-31. The Tenth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Clarke County;

(b) Kemper County; and

SECTION 23. Section 9-7-33, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-33. (1) The Eleventh Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Bolivar County;

(b) Coahoma County;

(d) Tunica County.

(2) The Eleventh Circuit Court District shall be divided into three (3) subdistricts as follows:

(a) Subdistrict 11-1 shall consist of the following precincts from the following counties:

(i) Bolivar County: Benoit, Beulah, Boyle, Choctaw, Cleveland Courthouse, East Central Cleveland*, East Cleveland*, East Rosedale, Gunnison, Longshot, North Cleveland, Northwest Cleveland*, Pace, Scott, Shaw, Skene, South Cleveland*, Stringtown, West Central Cleveland, West Cleveland and West Rosedale; and

(ii) Coahoma County: Bobo, Clarksdale 2-4*, Clarksdale 5-4*, Farrell*, Rena Lara and Sherard*.

(b) Subdistrict 11-2 shall consist of the following precincts from the following counties:

(i) Bolivar County: Cleveland Eastgate, Duncan/Alligator, East Central Cleveland*, East Cleveland*, Merigold, Mound Bayou, Northwest Cleveland*, Renova, Shelby, South Cleveland* and Winstonville;

(ii) Coahoma County: Cagle Crossing, Clarksdale 1-4*, Clarksdale 3-3, Clarksdale 3-4, Clarksdale 4-2, Clarksdale 4-3, Dublin and Roundaway; and

(iii) Quitman County: Belen*, District 3 South*, Lambert, Northwest Marks, Southwest Marks and West Lambert.

(i) Coahoma County: Clarksdale 1-4*, Clarksdale 2-4*, Clarksdale 5-4*, Coahoma, Farrell*, Friar's Point, Jonestown, Lula, Lyon and Sherard*; and

(ii) Quitman County: Belen*, Crenshaw, Crowder, Darling, District 3 North, District 3 South* and Sledge.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-33. The Eleventh Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Bolivar County;

(b) Coahoma County;

(d) Sunflower County; and

(e) Tunica County.

SECTION 24. Section 9-7-34, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-34. There shall be three (3) judges for the Eleventh Circuit Court District. One (1) judge shall be elected from each subdistrict.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-34. There shall be three (3) judges for the Eleventh Circuit Court District. The three (3) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two," and "Place Three."

SECTION 25. Section 9-7-39, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-39. (1) The Fourteenth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Lincoln County;

(b) Pike County; and

(2) (a) There shall be two (2) judges for the Fourteenth Circuit Court District.

(b) The two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-39. (1) The Fourteenth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Copiah County;

(b) Lawrence County; and

(2) There shall be two (2) judges for the Fourteenth Circuit Court District. The two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One" and "Place Two."

SECTION 26. Section 9-7-41, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-41. The Fifteenth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Jefferson Davis County;

(b) Lamar County;

(d) Marion County; and

(e) Pearl River County.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-41. The Fifteenth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Jefferson Davis County;

(b) Lamar County;

(d) Pearl River County; and

(e) Walthall County.

SECTION 27. Section 9-7-42, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-42. (1) There shall be three (3) judges for the Fifteenth Circuit Court District.

(2) The three (3) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two," and "Place Three." The judge to fill Place One must be a resident of Jefferson Davis, Lamar, Lawrence or Marion County. The judge to fill Place Two may be a resident of any county in the district. The judge to fill Place Three must be a resident of Pearl River County.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-42. (1) There shall be three (3) judges for the Fifteenth Circuit Court District.

(2) The three (3) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated for purposes of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two" and "Place Three." The judge to fill Place One must be a resident of Jefferson Davis County, Lamar County, or Marion County. The judge to fill Place Two may be a resident of any county in the district. The judge to fill Place Three must be a resident of Pearl River County.

SECTION 28. Section 9-7-47, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-47. The Eighteenth Circuit Court District shall be Jones County.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-47. (1) The Eighteenth Circuit Court District shall be composed of the following counties:

(a) George County;

(b) Greene County;

(d) Wayne County.

(2) There shall be two (2) circuit judges for the Eighteenth Circuit Court District. The two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and be denominated for the purpose of appointment and election as "Place One" and "Place Two." The judge to fill Place One must reside in Jones County, and the judge to fill Place Two must reside in either George County, Greene County, or Wayne County.

SECTION 29. Section 9-7-49, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-49. * * * ~~(1)~~ The Nineteenth Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) George County;

(b) Greene County; and

* * *

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-49. The Nineteenth Circuit Court District shall be Jackson County.

SECTION 30. Section 9-7-55, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-55. The Twenty-first Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Holmes County;

(b) Humphreys County; and

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

9-7-55. (1) The Twenty-first Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Holmes County;

(b) Humphreys County;

(d) Washington County.

(2) There shall be three (3) circuit judges for the Twenty-first Circuit Court District. The three (3) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and be denominated for the purpose of appointment and election only as "Place One," "Place Two" and "Place Three."

SECTION 31. Section 9-7-57, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

9-7-57. (1) The Twenty-second Circuit Court District is composed of the following counties:

(a) Claiborne County;

(b) Copiah County; and

(2) This section shall stand repealed on January 1, 2027.

SECTION 32. Section 9-7-63, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

9-7-63. The Twenty-third Circuit Court District shall be DeSoto County. This section shall stand repealed on January 1, 2027.

SECTION 33. Section 9-7-64, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

9-7-64. (1) There shall be two (2) circuit judges for the Twenty-third Circuit Court District.

(2) For the purposes of appointment and election, the two (2) judgeships shall be separate and distinct and denominated as "Place One" and "Place Two."

(3) This section shall stand repealed on January 1, 2027.

SECTION 34. Section 25-31-5, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

[Until January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

25-31-5. (1) The following number of full-time legal assistants are authorized in the following circuit court districts:

(a) First Circuit Court District.............. ten (10) legal assistants.

(b) Second Circuit Court District.......... eleven (11) legal assistants.

(d) Fourth Circuit Court District.............. six (6) legal assistants.

(e) Fifth Circuit Court District...............five (5) legal assistants.

(f) Sixth Circuit Court District............. three (3) legal assistants.

(g) Seventh Circuit Court District......... * * * ~~twelve (12)~~ fourteen (14) legal assistants. Effective July 1, 2023, through July 1, 2025, the Seventh Circuit Court District shall have * * * ~~fourteen (14)~~ sixteen (16) legal assistants.

(h) Eighth Circuit Court District.............three (3) legal assistants.

(i) Ninth Circuit Court District..............three (3) legal assistants.

(j) Tenth Circuit Court District.............. five (5) legal assistants.

(k) Eleventh Circuit Court District............five (5) legal assistants.

(l) Twelfth Circuit Court District.............five (5) legal assistants.

(m) Thirteenth Circuit Court District..........four (4) legal assistants.

(n) Fourteenth Circuit Court District.......... six (6) legal assistants.

(o) Fifteenth Circuit Court District......... seven (7) legal assistants.

(p) Sixteenth Circuit Court District........... six (6) legal assistants.

(q) Seventeenth Circuit Court District........ four (4) legal assistants.

(r) Eighteenth Circuit Court District...........two (2) legal assistants.

(s) Nineteenth Circuit Court District........ seven (7) legal assistants.

(t) Twentieth Circuit Court District......... seven (7) legal assistants.

(u) Twenty-first Circuit Court District....... * * * ~~four (4)~~ five (5) legal assistants.

(v) Twenty-second Circuit Court District.....three (3) legal assistants.

(w) Twenty-third Circuit Court District..... * * * ~~five (5)~~ seven (7) legal assistants.

(2) In addition to any legal assistants authorized pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the following number of full-time legal assistants are authorized (i) in the following circuit court districts if funds are appropriated by the Legislature to adequately fund the salaries, expenses and fringe benefits of such legal assistants, or (ii) in any of the following circuit court districts in which the board of supervisors of one or more of the counties in a circuit court district adopts a resolution to pay all of the salaries, supplemental pay, expenses and fringe benefits of legal assistants authorized in such district pursuant to this subsection:

(a) First Circuit Court District................two (2) legal assistants.

(b) Second Circuit Court District...............two (2) legal assistants.

(d) Fourth Circuit Court District...............two (2) legal assistants.

(e) Fifth Circuit Court District................two (2) legal assistants.

(f) Sixth Circuit Court District................two (2) legal assistants.

(g) Seventh Circuit Court District..............two (2) legal assistants.

(h) Eighth Circuit Court District...............two (2) legal assistants.

(i) Ninth Circuit Court District................two (2) legal assistants.

(j) Tenth Circuit Court District................two (2) legal assistants.

(k) Eleventh Circuit Court District.............two (2) legal assistants.

(l) Twelfth Circuit Court District..............two (2) legal assistants.

(m) Thirteenth Circuit Court District...........two (2) legal assistants.

(n) Fourteenth Circuit Court District...........two (2) legal assistants.

(o) Fifteenth Circuit Court District............two (2) legal assistants.

(p) Sixteenth Circuit Court District............two (2) legal assistants.

(q) Seventeenth Circuit Court District..........two (2) legal assistants.

(r) Eighteenth Circuit Court District...........two (2) legal assistants.

(s) Nineteenth Circuit Court District...........two (2) legal assistants.

(t) Twentieth Circuit Court District............two (2) legal assistants.

(u) Twenty-first Circuit Court District.........two (2) legal assistants.

(v) Twenty-second Circuit Court District........two (2) legal assistants.

(w) Twenty-third Circuit Court District........two (2) legal assistants.

(3) The board of supervisors of any county may pay all or a part of the salary, supplemental pay, expenses and fringe benefits of any district attorney or legal assistant authorized in the circuit court district to which such county belongs pursuant to this section.

(4) The district attorney of any circuit court district may employ additional legal assistants or criminal investigators, or both, without regard to any limitation on the number of legal assistants authorized in this section or criminal investigators authorized by other provisions of law to the extent that the district attorney's office receives funds from any source. Any source shall include, but is not limited to, office-generated funds, funds from a county, a combination of counties, a municipality, a combination of municipalities, federal funds, private grants or foundations, or by means of an Interlocal Cooperative Agreement authorized by Section 17-13-1 which may be expended for those positions in an amount sufficient to pay all of the salary, supplemental pay, expenses and fringe benefits of the positions. Such funds may either be paid out of district attorney accounts, transferred by the district attorney to the Department of Finance and Administration or to one or more of the separate counties comprising the circuit court district, and the funds shall be disbursed to such employees in the same manner as state-funded criminal investigators and full-time legal assistants. The district attorney shall report to the board of supervisors of each county comprising the circuit court district the amount and source of the supplemental salary, expenses and fringe benefits, and the board in each county shall spread the same on its minutes. The district attorney shall also report such information to the Department of Finance and Administration which shall make such information available to the Legislative Budget Office.

(5) The district attorney shall be authorized to assign the duties of a legal assistant regardless of the source of funding for such legal assistants.

[From and after January 1, 2027, this section shall read as follows:]

25-31-5. (1) The following number of full-time legal assistants are authorized in the following circuit court districts:

(a) First Circuit Court District.............. ten (10) legal assistants.

(b) Second Circuit Court District.......... eleven (11) legal assistants.

(d) Fourth Circuit Court District..............seven (7) legal assistants.

(e) Fifth Circuit Court District...............five (5) legal assistants.

(f) Sixth Circuit Court District............. three (3) legal assistants.

(g) Seventh Circuit Court District......... fourteen (14) legal assistants. Effective July 1, 2023, through July 1, 2025, the Seventh Circuit Court District shall have sixteen (16) legal assistants.