Jay Hughes (D-Oxford) filed suit March 24 to stop Philip Gunn (R-Clinton), from using a computer program that reads the text of bills at an illegible speed. Both sides filed briefs ahead of the July 19 Mississippi Supreme Court hearing. This provided insight into how and what they will argue. Hughes asserts that the automated bill readings of the “demon chipsmunk”, as Hughes calls them, don’t adhere to the laws laid down in the Mississippi Constitution. Gunn claims that the constitution doesn’t specify the speed at which bills can be read. “This Court has both the power and obligation to hold Speaker Gunn responsible for his flagrant violation of the Mississippi Constitution 1890. Hughes stated in a brief this week that he is not above the law. “Alternatively, this Court should take judicial note of Speaker Gunn’s actions, determine that he violated the Constitution and forever put an end to the “demon chipmunk”. The fight between Gunn, Hughes and Hughes began in March during the regular legislative session. Any member of the House can request that bills are read aloud under Mississippi Constitution and House rules. This tactic is used to slow down the House’s action. A machine has been used to read bills aloud, replacing the clerk in recent years. Several Democrats requested that bills be read during the regular session this year as a protest against Gunn’s actions, which included steps that would have prevented them from participating in the legislative process. Gunn ordered House clerks turn the speed of the automatic readings up to an incomprehensible level. In March, there had never been a hearing at the circuit court. Winston Kidd, Hinds County Circuit Judge, quickly agreed with Hughes’ original complaint and issued a temporary restraining or against Gunn. This forced Gunn to immediately slow down the automatic readings. The state’s high courts dissolved the order without explanation days later, allowing Gunn to increase the speed of the readings and staying Kidd’s ordeal. The high court will also be considering additional questions in July, including whether the bill reading action was constitutional. The Supreme Court’s jurisdiction to interfere in legislative procedures is perhaps the first. Hughes claims it does. He cites many cases in which Hughes has granted “due deference” to the legislative branch. However, the court has not given up the power to hold legislators responsible for violating the Mississippi Constitution of 1890. Gunn and his lawyers disagree and point out other instances in which similar questions were left to the Legislature. Gunn’s lawyers wrote that “This Court acknowledged that not all disputes between citizens are subjected to the resolution by the judiciary power.” They filed a brief earlier in this month. “In particular, The Constitution assigns legislative power to the Legislature. This Court has repeatedly refused interference with the Legislature’s ability to control its internal affairs.” Hughes hopes that the Supreme Court will decide next month to send the case back the Hinds County Circuit Court. Both sides can then present their arguments. Gunn would prefer that the Supreme Court dismiss the case entirely. The state officials and attorneys, including the Lt. Governor, have defended Gunn. Gunn was defended by Tate Reeves (R-Florence). Reeves filed an amicus short earlier in the month, asking the court not to get involved in legislative procedural issues and to dismiss the case. Hughes, who ran unsuccessfully for House minority leader within days of his legislative tenure, maintains that his case should be considered by the Supreme Court as well as the lower circuit court. Hughes stated earlier this month that he hopes they (the Supreme Court), will see that the bill-reading machine set at warp speed is against the constitution and, most importantly, the integrity our state capitol. The truth is that the people have the right to hear and see it. “I think people understand the atrocity in the actions. I believe the court of public opinion has already recognized it.” To support this work, you can make a regular donation to our Spring Member Drive today. This will allow us to continue important work such as this story. Our reporters give a human face to policy’s impact on everyday Mississippians by listening more closely and understanding their communities. To ensure that our work is aligned with the priorities and needs of Mississippians, we are listening to you. Click the button below to let us know what you think. Republish this Story