[2] In 1977, the state constitution was amended to require that legislative districts be apportioned equally in terms of population.

[7][a] All legislators swear a state constitutionally-prescribed oath of office, which requires them to declare allegiance to the state and federal constitutions, pledge to be responsible in the exercise of their duties, and promise not to engage in vote trading.

[10] The Constitution of Mississippi provides for a bicameral legislature of the state, composed of a Senate and a House of Representatives, in which all lawmaking authority is vested.

[18] Each house keeps an official journal to record its proceedings, including votes on bills.

The Mississippi Constitution prohibits amending a bill to change its original purpose.

[23] Any revenue bill or measure that alters the assessment of taxable property requires the approval of three-fifths of legislators present and voting.

Unable to compel testimony from any individual in such instances, or prosecute crimes, or enforce any other desired outcome, such hearings are usually held only to gather information to aid in policy-making and budgeting decisions.

[27] During instances of rebellion or foreign invasion, the legislature may suspend the writ of habeas corpus.

[28] The House of Representatives is empowered to impeach any state official with the agreement of two-thirds of its members and subject them to a trial in the Senate, which can remove an official from office with the agreement of two-thirds of its members.

[29] The legislature can pass amendments to the state constitution with the approval of two-thirds of the members of each house, subject to ratification in a popular referendum.

[4] Mississippi judges have usually deferred to the legislature on legal questions involving its internal decisions and operations; such things are not subject to regular judicial review.

That year the Associated Press stated that this "raises questions about the ability of American voters to hold their elected representatives accountable.