The Voter Reference Foundation has been committed to fighting against Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) in the United States, and we believe that in order to maintain fair elections across the country RCV must not be allowed to take root in our election systems. As part of our efforts, we track legislation across the country and take action to oppose legislation that would establish RCV and support legislation that seek to prohibit its implementation. Below you can find a list of bills compiled by VRF staff, we encourage everyone to read through the bills and if you feel inclined, take action to in your state to ensure RCV does not devastate the integrity of your election systems.
Bill: AK HB4 – Presidential Write-in Votes
Summary: This bill modifies Alaska’s election laws to provide clearer guidelines for write-in candidates for President and Vice-President of the United States. Specifically, the bill requires that write-in presidential candidates file a letter with the state election director certifying required candidacy information and establishes rules for how write-in votes for presidential candidates will be counted. The changes allow write-in votes to be valid if the voter fills in the appropriate oval and writes either the full names of the presidential and vice-presidential candidates as they appear on their write-in declaration of candidacy, their last names, or the name of the presidential candidate. The bill also mandates that general election ballots include a specific section for write-in candidates for President and Vice-President, similar to existing provisions for other elected offices. These modifications aim to provide more clarity and consistency in how write-in votes are processed and counted for presidential elections, ensuring that voter intent can be more easily determined while maintaining the integrity of the voting process.
Bill: AK HB268 – Appropriations: Operating Budget; Cap; Supp; Am
Summary: This bill makes appropriations for the operating and loan program expenses of state government and for certain programs, capitalizes funds, repeals and amends appropriations, and makes supplemental appropriations and reappropriations for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024, and ending June 30, 2025. Key provisions include appropriations for operating expenses of state agencies, funding for salary and benefit adjustments for state and university employees, capitalization of various state funds, and transfers between funds. The bill also contains numerous supplemental appropriations and fund transfers for the current and prior fiscal years.
Bill: AL HB60 – Elections; Alabama Voting Rights Act Commission established to prevent discrimination in voting; duties and membership provided; Secretary of State required to establish database on election administration
Summary: This bill establishes the Alabama Voting Rights Act, which creates a comprehensive framework to prevent discrimination in voting and protect the electoral rights of minority populations. The bill creates an Alabama Voting Rights Act Commission consisting of five commissioners selected through a complex nomination process, who will be responsible for reviewing and preclearing election-related policies in jurisdictions with historical voting rights challenges. The Secretary of State is required to establish a statewide database tracking detailed election information, including population demographics, election results, voter registration data, and polling place locations. The bill expands voting rights for individuals with prior felony convictions, making it easier for them to restore their voting privileges, and creates a Voter Education Fund to support outreach efforts targeting underrepresented communities. Key provisions include establishing a preclearance process for election-related policies in certain jurisdictions, requiring public comment periods, and allowing challenges to policies that might potentially discriminate against protected classes. The commission has the power to subpoena witnesses, investigate potential voting rights violations, and can deny preclearance to policies that are likely to diminish voting opportunities for minority populations. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2025, and represents a significant effort to enhance voting access and prevent electoral discrimination in Alabama.
Bill: AL SB7 – Elections; Alabama Voting Rights Act Commission established to prevent discrimination in voting; duties and membership provided; Secretary of State required to establish database on election administration
Summary: This bill establishes the Alabama Voting Rights Act, which aims to prevent discrimination in voting. The key provisions include: 1. Prohibiting state or local governments from implementing policies or practices that result in disparities in electoral participation or access to voting opportunities for protected classes. 2. Establishing the Alabama Voting Rights Act Commission to administer the Act, including investigating potential voting rights violations, issuing subpoenas, and overseeing a preclearance process for certain changes to election policies and practices by local governments. 3. Requiring the Secretary of State to establish a statewide database with information on election administration and demographics to assist in evaluating compliance with the Act. 4. Creating a Voter Education Fund to be used by the Commission for various voter education and outreach initiatives. The bill also amends existing laws related to voter registration, absentee voting, and the restoration of voting rights for individuals convicted of certain felonies. The bill is intended to protect the voting rights of members of protected classes in Alabama.
Bill: CT HB05083 – An Act Concerning Municipal Elections, The Citizens’ Election Program and Ranked-choice Voting.
Summary: This bill proposes to expand the existing Citizens’ Election Program to allow public financing for municipal election campaigns and provide financial grants to municipalities that adopt ranked-choice voting. Specifically, the bill would modify title 9 of the general statutes to open up the Citizens’ Election Fund to candidates running for municipal offices, which would provide them with public funding to support their campaigns. Additionally, the bill would offer grants to municipalities that choose to implement ranked-choice voting for their local elections. Ranked-choice voting is an electoral system where voters can rank candidates in order of preference, instead of selecting just one candidate, which can provide a more nuanced representation of voter sentiment. The grants would be specifically used for voter education and outreach efforts to help citizens understand the new voting method. By expanding public campaign financing and supporting ranked-choice voting, the bill aims to enhance democratic participation and transparency at the municipal level.
Bill: CT HB05483 – An Act Concerning The Use Of Ranked-choice Voting in Primaries.
Summary: This bill allows political parties in Connecticut to implement ranked-choice voting (RCV) in their primary elections for nominating candidates for elective offices. Ranked-choice voting is an alternative voting method where voters can rank candidates in order of preference, rather than selecting just one candidate, which can provide more nuanced representation of voter preferences. Under this legislation, a political party can adopt RCV for its primaries if the specific rules for implementing the system are filed with the Secretary of the State. This means each political party would have the flexibility to design and adopt its own ranked choice voting system according to its internal rules, giving parties more autonomy in determining their candidate selection process. The bill does not mandate RCV but provides an optional pathway for parties interested in using this voting method to nominate their candidates.
Bill: CT HB06470 – An Act Concerning the Use of Ranked-choice Voting in Municipal Elections and in Certain Party Primaries.
Summary: This bill proposes to modify existing state election laws to allow municipalities and political parties more flexibility in conducting elections using ranked-choice voting (RCV). Specifically, the bill would enable municipalities to voluntarily adopt ranked choice voting for their local elections and allow political parties to use RCV in primary elections that have three or more candidates for nomination. In a ranked choice voting system, voters can rank candidates in order of preference (first choice, second choice, etc.) instead of selecting just one candidate. If no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their voters’ second-choice votes are redistributed to the remaining candidates. This process continues until one candidate achieves a majority. The bill gives local governments and political parties the option to implement this voting method, which aims to provide more nuanced voter representation and potentially reduce the impact of vote splitting in elections with multiple candidates.
Bill: CT HB06472 – An Act Allowing Ranked-choice Voting for Municipal Elections and Federal Primaries.
Summary: This bill proposes to modify title 9 of the general statutes to permit ranked-choice voting (RCV) for municipal elections and federal primary elections. Ranked-choice voting is an alternative voting method where voters can rank candidates in order of preference, rather than selecting just one candidate. In a ranked-choice system, if no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes, the candidate with the fewest first-choice votes is eliminated, and their votes are redistributed to voters’ second-choice candidates. This process continues until a candidate receives a majority of votes. By allowing this voting method for municipal offices and federal primaries, the bill aims to provide voters with more flexibility in expressing their electoral preferences and potentially reduce the impact of vote splitting or the “spoiler effect” in elections.
Bill: CT HB06474 – An Act Authorizing the Implementation of Ranked-choice Voting.
Summary: This bill proposes to modify title 9 of the general statutes to implement ranked-choice voting (RCV), a voting method that allows voters to rank candidates in order of their preference instead of choosing just one candidate. Under this system, if no candidate receives a majority of first- choice votes, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their votes are redistributed to voters’ next-ranked candidates. This process continues in sequential rounds, with the last-place candidates being progressively eliminated, until one candidate ultimately receives a majority of votes and is declared the winner. The goal of ranked-choice voting is to provide voters with more nuanced voting options and potentially reduce the impact of vote splitting, ensuring that the elected candidate has broader support from the electorate. By authorizing the use of RCV in both primaries and elections, the bill aims to change the traditional “winner-take-all” voting approach to a more collaborative and representative method of selecting political representatives.
Bill: CT SB00951 – An Act Concerning Ranked-choice Voting.
Summary: This bill proposes to amend the state’s election laws to introduce ranked-choice voting (RCV), a voting method where voters rank candidates in order of preference instead of selecting just one candidate. Under this system, if no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their votes are redistributed to voters’ next-ranked candidates. This process continues in sequential rounds until one candidate receives a majority and is declared the winner. The bill would specifically allow ranked-choice voting to be used in presidential preference primaries and give municipalities the option to use this method for single-member electoral offices. By implementing ranked-choice voting, the bill aims to provide voters with more flexibility in expressing their preferences and potentially reduce the likelihood of candidates winning with less than a majority of support. The proposed changes would modify title 9 of the general statutes to establish the legal framework for implementing this alternative voting method.
Bill: CT SB01111 – An Act Concerning the Recommendations of the Governor’s Working Group on Ranked-choice Voting.
Summary: This bill proposes to amend Connecticut’s election laws to implement recommendations from the Governor’s Working Group on Ranked-Choice Voting. Specifically, the bill would enable municipalities to use ranked-choice voting (RCV) in certain municipal elections, allow political parties to use RC in their party conventions, primaries, and presidential preference primaries. Ranked-choice voting is an electoral method where voters can rank candidates in order of preference, rather than selecting just one candidate. The bill also provides the Secretary of the State with the flexibility to defer implementing ranked choice voting procedures if there are challenges related to ballot design, voting technology, or insufficient resources. This approach gives local governments and political parties more options for conducting elections and potentially provides voters with more nuanced ways of expressing their electoral preferences.
Bill: IAHF91 – A bill for an act relating to the duties of the secretary of state, including the address confidentiality program and the conduct of elections, and including effective date provisions.
Summary: This bill introduces several changes to various aspects of elections and voter services in Iowa. It modifies the Address Confidentiality Program to allow participants to use a shelter’s contact information instead of their physical address and permits the secretary of state to hold a participant’s mail for up to 30 days. The bill removes ballot drop boxes for absentee voting and changes absentee ballot procedures, including requiring voters to include a voter verification number on the ballot envelope and mandating that ballots must be received by 5:00 p.m. the day before election day. The legislation prohibits ranked choice voting in the state, restricts who can be in a voting booth (specifically preventing candidates from being in the booth with a voter), and establishes a pilot program for verifying voter registration records using a third-party vendor. Additionally, the bill modifies candidate eligibility objection rules for federal offices, making it harder to challenge nominations, and reverts the term length for county hospital board of trustees from six to four years. These changes aim to modify election procedures, enhance voter verification, and add new restrictions to the voting process, with most provisions taking effect on January 1, 2026.
Bill: IASF94 – A bill for an act relating to the duties of the secretary of state, including the address confidentiality program and the conduct of elections.
Summary: This bill addresses several aspects of election administration and voter services in Iowa, making changes to multiple areas of election law. In the Address Confidentiality Program, the bill allows program participants who are victims of domestic violence or other threats to use a shelter’s contact information instead of their physical address, enables the secretary of state to cancel a participant’s certification if they have died, and permits the secretary to hold a participant’s mail for up to 30 days upon request. For candidate eligibility, the bill exempts federal office candidates from certain disqualification statements and limits objections to their nominations. The bill explicitly prohibits ranked choice voting in all state elections, effectively banning this alternative voting method. Regarding absentee voting, the bill eliminates ballot drop boxes, modifies envelope requirements, adds a voter verification number to ballot envelopes, changes ballot return deadlines to be earlier (by 5:00 p.m. the day before election day), and adds new requirements for ballot handling and tracking. The bill also restricts candidates from occupying voting booths with voters, establishes a pilot program for verifying voter registration records, and reverts the term length for county hospital board of trustees from six to four years. These changes aim to modify various election procedures and voter protections in Iowa.
Bill: IL HB1786 – ELEC CD-RANKED-CHOICE VOTING
Summary: This bill creates the Ranked-Choice Voting in State and Local Elections Task Force to study the potential implementation of ranked-choice voting (a voting method where voters rank candidates in order of preference) for state and local elections in Illinois. The Task Force will engage election officials, interested groups, and the public to assess adopting ranked-choice voting starting with the 2029 consolidated election. Its specific duties include reviewing voting system certification standards, evaluating whether current election systems can accommodate alternative voting methods, and making recommendations for potential changes to the Election Code. The Task Force will be composed of 20 members appointed by legislative leaders and the Governor, with representation from both legislators and public members, and at least two members with election administration experience. The members will serve without compensation and meet quarterly, with the State Board of Elections providing administrative support. By June 30, 2027, the Task Force must publish a final report detailing its findings, recommendations, and a realistic implementation timeline that considers system upgrades, public education, and necessary legislative and administrative changes. The Task Force will be automatically dissolved on July 1, 2027, after completing its work.
Bill: KS SB6 – Prohibiting the use of ranked-choice voting methods for conducting elections.
Summary: This bill prohibits the use of ranked-choice voting (RCV) in all elections within Kansas, including federal, state, county, and municipal contests.
Ranked-choice voting is defined as an electoral method where voters can rank multiple candidates in order of preference, and ballots are tabulated in multiple rounds, with the lowest-performing candidate eliminated after each round until one candidate receives a majority of votes. The bill specifically nullifies any existing ordinances, resolutions, or regulations implementing ranked choice voting that were adopted before July 1, 2025. By preventing the use of RCV, the bill aims to maintain traditional voting methods where voters select a single candidate, rather than allowing them to indicate backup preferences. The legislation would effectively prevent jurisdictions in Kansas from adopting this alternative voting system, which some proponents argue can reduce polarization and give voters more meaningful choices, while critics contend it can make election results more complex and less transparent.
Bill: MD HB215 – Elections – Ranked-Choice Voting in Contests for Presidential Nomination and Certification of Election-Supporting Technology
Summary: This bill introduces two main changes to Maryland election law. First, it allows the State Board of Elections to implement ranked-choice voting (RCV) for presidential nomination contests beginning with the 2028 statewide primary election. Ranked-choice voting is a method where voters can rank candidates in order of preference, and votes are tabulated to reflect those preferences, potentially providing a more nuanced representation of voter sentiment. If the State Board decides to use RCV, they must develop and fund a voter education campaign to inform voters about the new voting method and submit a report to the Governor and General Assembly by January 1, 2029, reviewing the implementation and offering recommendations for future use. The second part of the bill establishes regulations for election-supporting technology, defining it as equipment or technology used in election administration (such as electronic pollbooks and risk-limiting audit tools), and requiring the State Board to adopt regulations for reviewing, certifying, and decertifying such technology. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving election officials ample time to prepare for potential changes in voting procedures.
Bill: MD SB383 – Elections – Ranked-Choice Voting in Contests for Presidential Nomination and Certification of Election-Supporting Technology
Summary: This bill introduces two main changes to Maryland’s election laws. First, it allows the State Board of Elections to use ranked-choice voting (RCV) for the presidential primary election starting in 2028. Ranked-choice voting is a voting method where voters can rank candidates in order of preference, rather than just selecting one candidate. If the State Board implements RCV, they must develop and fund a voter education campaign to help voters understand this new voting method and must submit a report to the Governor and General Assembly by January 1, 2029, reviewing the implementation and offering recommendations for future use. Second, the bill requires the State Board to adopt regulations for reviewing, certifying, and decertifying election-supporting technology, which includes equipment like electronic pollbooks, risk-limiting audit tools, and election software (but not voting systems themselves). The State Board must also periodically review and evaluate this election-supporting technology. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving election officials time to prepare for the potential changes in the 2028 primary election.
Bill: ME LD234 – An Act to Eliminate Ranked-choice Voting
Summary: This bill seeks to eliminate ranked-choice voting (RCV) in Maine by repealing multiple sections of the state’s election law that previously governed the implementation of this voting method. Specifically, the bill removes provisions related to ranked choice voting for primary elections (including races for President, US Senator, US Representative, Governor, State Senator, and State Representative), general and special elections for US Senator and US Representative, and general elections for presidential electors. The bill systematically removes references to ranked choice voting throughout the state’s electoral code, including modifications to ballot design, voting instructions, vote counting procedures, and election certification processes. By repealing Section 723-A(which detailed the ranked-choice voting method) and removing language about RCV from various sections of election law, the bill effectively returns Maine’s electoral system to a traditional plurality voting method, where the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of whether they receive a majority of the total votes cast. This change would impact how voters mark their ballots, how votes are counted and reported, and how election results are determined across multiple types of state and federal elections.
Bill: ME LD252 – An Act to Withdraw from the National Popular Vote Compact
Summary: This bill repeals Maine’s participation in the National Popular Vote Compact and makes several technical changes to the state’s election statutes.
The bill modifies language in various sections of Maine’s election law, primarily replacing the phrase “removed from consideration” with “defeated” when describing candidate elimination in ranked choice voting processes. It removes specific provisions related to the National Popular Vote for President Act, effectively reverting the state’s presidential elector selection process to a traditional method. The bill clarifies that presidential electors will now cast their ballots based on the candidate who received the largest number of votes in the state and in each congressional district, using the ranked choice voting method. Additionally, the bill reinstates the Governor’s responsibility to send certificates of elector determination to the Archivist of the United States, specifying that these certificates must include the number of votes each presidential candidate received statewide and in each congressional district. By repealing entire sections and chapters related to the National Popular Vote Compact, the bill ensures that Maine returns to its previous method of allocating presidential electors.
Bill: ME LD309 – An Act to Allow a Political Party to Determine How That Party’s Nominee Is Selected in a Primary Election
Summary: This bill allows a political party to determine the method for selecting its nominees in a primary election, providing more flexibility in how parties conduct their internal election processes. Specifically, during the state convention held between March 1st and August 1st in each general election year, a political party can decide whether to use ranked-choice voting (a voting method where voters rank candidates in order of preference) or an alternate method for their primary election. If the party chooses an alternative method, they must incorporate this decision into their party rules and notify the Secretary of State no later than October 1st of the year prior to the primary election. The bill amends existing election laws to give political parties more autonomy in selecting their candidates, allowing them to opt out of the standard ranked choice voting system if they choose. This change provides parties with greater control over their nomination processes while maintaining a structured approach to modifying primary election methods. The bill requires transparency by mandating that any changes be formally documented in party rules and communicated to state election officials.
Bill: MN SF639 – Political subdivisions establishment or enforcement of ranked-choice voting prohibition
Summary: This bill prohibits political subdivisions in Minnesota, including home rule charter and statutory cities, counties, townships, and school districts, from establishing or enforcing ranked choice voting for local elections. Ranked-choice voting is defined as an election method where voters rank candidates by preference, assigning numerical values to their choices. The bill would effectively invalidate any existing rules, resolutions, charter provisions, or ordinances that implement ranked choice voting in these local jurisdictions. The proposed legislation would become effective immediately after being enacted and would apply to all elections occurring on or after that date. By preventing local governments from adopting this alternative voting method, the bill aims to maintain traditional voting procedures at the local level and ensure uniformity in election processes across Minnesota’s political subdivisions.
Bill: ND HB1297 – Home rule powers in counties and cities.
Summary: This bill amends North Dakota state law to prohibit two specific voting methods – approval voting and ranked-choice voting – in all local, state, and federal elections. Approval voting is defined as a method where voters can vote for all candidates they approve of in a race, with winners determined by the most votes, while ranked-choice voting allows voters to rank candidates by preference, with candidates eliminated in rounds until one candidate achieves a majority. The bill explicitly states that any ordinance, including those created under home rule charters by counties or cities, that conflicts with this prohibition will be considered void. Specifically, the bill modifies existing sections of the North Dakota Century Code related to county and city election provisions to incorporate this new restriction, ensuring that traditional voting methods remain the standard for elections across the state. The goal appears to be maintaining a conventional voting system and preventing alternative voting methodologies from being implemented at any level of government in North Dakota.
Bill: NH HB600 – Enabling ranked-choice voting for municipal elections.
Summary: This bill enables municipalities in New Hampshire to adopt ranked-choice voting (RCV) for local elections, providing a comprehensive framework for how such voting would be implemented. Ranked-choice voting allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference, rather than just selecting a single candidate. The bill defines key terms and establishes detailed procedures for counting votes, including a multi-round process where candidates with the fewest votes are progressively eliminated, and votes are redistributed based on voters’ subsequent preferences. Municipalities can opt-in to ranked choice voting by following specific procedures, such as holding a public hearing and obtaining voter approval through a ballot question. The bill mandates that ballots allow voters to rank at least 5 candidates in single-winner elections and provides guidelines for both single-winner and multi-winner election scenarios. It also requires the Secretary of State to create rules for implementation and establish transparent reporting mechanisms, including releasing preliminary and final round-by-round voting results. Notably, the bill allows individual municipalities to choose whether and for which offices they want to use ranked-choice voting, making it an optional, locally driven process. The bill is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and includes provisions for how political parties might also use ranked choice voting in their caucus elections.
Bill: NJ A4042 – Allows ranked-choice voting options for municipal and school board elections under certain circumstances.
Summary: This bill, the “Municipal and School Board Voting Options Act,” allows municipalities and school boards in this State to adopt ranked choice voting for conducting their local elections under certain circumstances. Ranked-choice voting is a method where voters rank multiple candidates in order of preference, and the votes are counted and transferred to candidates according to the preferences marked on each ballot. The bill defines the necessary terms and the manner of counting the votes and declaring elected candidates and provides that all municipal governing bodies and school boards would be permitted to adopt ranked choice voting by adopting an ordinance or resolution to be submitted to the voters for approval through a referendum. The bill also allows the voters to place a direct petition on the ballot to adopt ranked-choice voting. If approved by the voters, all elections for the offices of mayor, municipal governing body, or elected school board, other than a primary election, would be conducted using ranked-choice voting. The Division of Elections is directed to adopt rules and regulations to effectuate the bill’s provisions and provide guidelines and technical rules to assist local election officials in implementing and counting a ranked choice voting election.
Bill: NJ A4083 – Establishes “John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act of New Jersey.”
Summary: This bill establishes the “John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act of New Jersey.” The key provisions of the bill include: 1) declaring the public policy of the state to encourage maximum voter participation and ensure equal voting opportunities for protected classes, including racial, color, and language-minority groups; 2) prohibiting voting procedures that result in denying or abridging the right to vote for protected classes; 3) allowing courts to implement remedies to ensure equitable access to the electoral process, such as transitioning to district-based or alternative election methods; 4) requiring local governments to provide language assistance for limited English proficient voters; 5) establishing a preclearance program for covered entities and policies that may impact voting rights; and 6) creating the New Jersey Voting and Elections Institute to collect and maintain a public database of elections data.
Bill: NJ S3009 – Establishes “John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act of New Jersey.”
Summary: Sister bill to NJ A4083. This bill establishes the “John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act of New Jersey.” The key provisions of the bill are: – It requires that all voting- related laws, policies, and practices be interpreted and applied in a way that protects the right to vote, facilitates voter registration, and ensures equitable access for racial, color, and language-minority groups. – It prohibits voting policies or practices that unnecessarily burden the right to vote or have the effect of impairing the ability of protected class members to participate in the political process or elect their preferred candidates.
– It establishes a process for challenging potentially discriminatory voting policies, including a requirement that certain “covered entities” obtain preclearance from the Attorney General before implementing certain changes. – It requires language assistance and translated voting materials for language-minority groups that meet certain population thresholds. – It establishes the “New Jersey Voting and Elections Institute” to maintain a public database of voting and election data. – It provides for expedited court proceedings and attorney’s fees for successful plaintiffs in voting rights cases. The overall purpose of the bill is to encourage maximum voter participation, ensure equal opportunity for protected classes, improve election data, and protect voters from intimidation and deceptive practices.
Bill: NYA00090 – Establishes a ranked choice voting method for nonpartisan primary elections.
Summary: This bill establishes a ranked choice voting (RCV) method for nonpartisan primary elections in New York, beginning in 2027. Under this system, voters can rank up to five candidates in order of preference on a single ballot, rather than voting for just one candidate. If no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes, the candidate with the fewest first-choice votes is eliminated, and their voters’ ballots are redistributed to their next- ranked candidates. This process continues until only two candidates remain, who then advance to the general election. All registered voters can participate regardless of party affiliation, and all candidates will be listed together on the same ballot. The state board of elections is tasked with creating rules for implementing this method and conducting a voter education campaign to help citizens understand the new voting system. The bill aims to provide more voter choice and potentially elect candidates with broader support by allowing voters to express preferences beyond their top choice. The new voting method will apply to state, local, and federal primary elections (except presidential primaries) starting in 2027, when more than two candidates are nominated for an office.
Bill: NYA00560 – Establishes a ranked choice voting method for presidential elections whereby voters rank candidates according to the order of their choice and, if no candidate has received a majority of votes, the candidate with the fewest first choice votes is eliminated, and the remaining candidates advance to another counting round until a winner is determined.
Summary: This bill establishes a ranked choice voting method for presidential elections in New York State beginning in 2028, whereby voters can rank candidates in order of preference instead of choosing just one. Under this system, if no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes, the candidate with the fewest first-choice votes is eliminated, and their votes are redistributed to voters’ next-ranked candidates. This process continues through multiple rounds until a candidate achieves a majority. The bill requires the state board of elections to update ballots to allow voters to rank candidates, provide clear instructions on how to rank choices, and conduct a voter education campaign to help people understand the new voting method. The ballot will allow voters to rank multiple candidates, with a write-in option, and voters can choose to rank just one candidate if they prefer. The bill also specifies procedures for handling ballots with skipped numbers or duplicate rankings and provides rules for resolving ties between candidates. This approach aims to give voters more choice and ensure a winner with broader support, while maintaining the existing election law framework.
Bill: OH SB63 – Prohibit use of ranked choice voting; withhold funding for use
Summary: This bill prohibits the use of ranked choice voting (RCV) in Ohio elections and imposes financial penalties on municipalities or counties that attempt to implement RCV. Specifically, the bill defines ranked choice voting as a voting method where voters rank candidates in order of preference, with votes being transferred in rounds until a candidate receives a majority. Under the proposed legislation, no election in Ohio, including primary and general elections, can be conducted using RCV. If a county or municipal corporation adopts an ordinance or resolution approving RCV, they will become ineligible to receive local government fund distributions from the state. The secretary of state is required to notify the tax commissioner of such jurisdictions’ ineligibility, and payments will be withheld beginning the month following the adoption of the RCV resolution. If the jurisdiction rescinds its RCV approval, it can become eligible for local government fund distributions again. The bill also specifies that if a jurisdiction is subject to multiple funding reductions, the reductions will be applied in a specific order, with the amounts being transferred to the state’s general revenue fund. This legislation effectively bans the use of ranked choice voting and creates a strong financial disincentive for local governments to consider implementing such a voting system.
Bill: OR HB3391 – Relating to ranked choice voting.
Summary: This bill directs the Oregon Secretary of State to conduct a comprehensive study on ranked choice voting (RCV), a voting method where voters rank candidates in order of preference instead of selecting just one candidate. The Secretary is required to submit a detailed report to the interim legislative committees responsible for election matters by September 15, 2026. The report may include legislative recommendations and will be prepared according to the standard reporting procedures outlined in Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 192.245. The bill includes a built-in sunset provision that will automatically repeal the study requirement on January 2, 2027, effectively making this a time-limited research initiative. The purpose appears to be gathering information and potential insights about ranked choice voting that could inform future election policy decisions in Oregon.
Bill: SC H3386 – Ranked Choice Voting Ban
Summary: This bill aims to prohibit the use of ranked choice voting (RCV) and instant runoff voting in South Carolina elections. The bill defines these voting methods as a process where voters rank candidates by preference, and votes are redistributed in rounds based on those preferences until a candidate wins a majority or all positions are filled. Specifically, the bill prevents county election boards and municipal election commissions from using RCV in any general, special, or primary elections for federal, state, or local offices. The bill includes two important exceptions: it does not prevent at-large or multimember district elections as currently permitted bylaw, and it does not restrict military and overseas voters from using absentee instant runoff ballots. By adding Section 7-13-870 to the South Carolina Code of Laws, the legislation seeks to maintain traditional voting methods and prevent the implementation of alternative vote-counting systems. The bill would take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor, effectively banning ranked choice voting across the state.
Bill: SC H3589 – Ranked choice voting
Summary: This bill introduces ranked choice voting (also known as instant runoff voting) for local elections in South Carolina, allowing municipalities to adopt a new voting method where voters can rank candidates in order of preference instead of choosing just one candidate. Under this system, if no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and voters who selected that candidate have their votes redistributed to their next-ranked candidate. This process continues until a candidate receives a majority or only two candidates remain. The bill amends existing election laws to allow municipalities to choose this voting method for both single-seat and multi-seat elections, giving local governments more flexibility in conducting elections. The State Election Commission would be responsible for creating rules and regulations for implementing ranked choice voting, including procedures for casting and counting votes, determining winners, creating ballot instructions, and releasing election results. Additionally, the bill modifies provisions related to municipal council elections, allowing for various election structures such as ward-based, at-large, or hybrid systems that can incorporate the new ranked choice voting method. The changes aim to provide more representative election outcomes and potentially reduce the need for separate runoff elections.
Bill: US HRes20 – Establishing the Select Committee on Electoral Reform.
Summary: This resolution establishes the House Select Committee on Electoral Reform to examine current methods of electing Members of Congress, consider alternative methods of election, and report appropriate recommendations to Congress and the President. Specifically, the committee must (1) determine how alternative methods of election would affect the responsiveness, accountability, and functionality of Congress; (2) conduct hearings to take testimony and receive evidence from appropriate expert witnesses; and (3) examine federal barriers to state experimentation with alternative electoral systems. The committee must consider alternatives to current methods that include adopting multi-member congressional districts with proportional representation; adjusting the total number of Members of the House of Representatives; adopting alternative methods of voting (e.g., ranked-choice voting); and holding open and nonpartisan primaries.
Bill: UT HB0369 – Elections Office
Summary: This bill establishes the Elections Office as an independent state agency that will assume all responsibilities for elections previously held by the lieutenant governor. The Elections Office will be led by a director who is appointed by an appointing committee composed of county clerk, with specific requirements for the director’s qualifications, term of service, and responsibilities. The director will serve as the chief election officer of the state, with broad oversight and supervisory authority over all elections, including the power to exercise direct authority over elections for federal, state, and multicounty offices, establish uniformity in election ballots, and prepare election information for the public. The bill systematically replaces all references to the “lieutenant governor” with “director” across multiple sections of Utah election law, effectively transferring election-related duties from the lieutenant governor to the new Elections Office director. The Elections Office will be subject to various state administrative and governance requirements, including personnel management rules, open meetings laws, and budget procedures, and will use the legal services of the Office of the Attorney General.
Bill: VAHB658 – Elections; allows for any local or constitutional office to be conducted by ranked choice voting.
Summary: This bill expands the use of ranked choice voting (RCV) to all local and constitutional offices in Virginia, beyond the current limitation to county boards of supervisors and city councils. Ranked choice voting is a voting method where voters rank candidates in order of preference, with votes being transferred in rounds until a candidate wins. The bill requires that RCV election results be reported on election night as preliminary results based on first-choice rankings. For local offices within a single county or city, final vote tabulation will occur during the standard electoral board meeting, while elections spanning multiple jurisdictions will have final tabulation conducted at a centralized facility under the Department of Elections’ supervision. The bill mandates that the Department publicly release detailed voting data, including round-by-round results and ranking information. The State Board of Elections must develop standards for RCV vote tabulation software and provide regulations for administering RCV elections. Additionally, the bill limits risk-limiting audits of RCV elections to first-choice rankings and directs the Department of Elections to review and report on the Commonwealth’s voting equipment testing and approval framework by the first day of the 2025 Regular Session of the General Assembly.
Bill: VASB270 – Presidential primaries; ranked choice voting, effective clause.
Summary: This bill allows political parties in Virginia to conduct presidential primaries using ranked choice voting (RCV), a voting method where voters can rank candidates in order of preference instead of selecting just one. Under the proposed law, parties can choose to use RCV and must specify whether they will award delegates on a winner-take-all or proportional basis. If a party adopts RCV, voters will be able to rank multiple candidates on their ballot, with the number of rankings potentially limited by voting equipment constraints. During vote tabulation, if a candidate receives the fewest votes, their votes are redistributed to voters’ next-ranked candidates. The bill requires detailed reporting of election results, including round-by-round vote counts and ballot-level ranking data. Parties must notify the State Board of their voting method at least 150 days before the primary, and the Department of Elections must confirm the feasibility of implementing the chosen method. Importantly, the bill includes a reenactment clause, meaning these provisions will only take effect if the legislature approves them again in the 2025 legislative session, providing an additional layer of review and potential modification before implementation.
Bill: VASB1009 – Elections; conduct of election, ranked choice voting, locally elected offices, report.
Summary: This bill modifies Virginia’s election laws to expand the use of ranked choice voting (RCV) for local elections and establish new standards for its implementation. Ranked choice voting is a voting method where voters rank candidates in order of preference, and votes are tabulated in rounds where candidates are either elected or eliminated based on those preferences. The bill allows any local governing body to decide to use RCV for their elections, with the State Board of Elections required to review the technical feasibility of such a decision. The legislation mandates that the State Board provide standards for vote tabulating software, create regulations for RCV election administration, and produce voter education materials. Additionally, the bill gives the State Board authority to modify recount procedures for RCV elections and requires the Department of Elections to conduct a comprehensive review of voting equipment testing and approval frameworks, with a report due by the first day of the 2026 Regular Session of the General Assembly. The bill also includes provisions for potential county reimbursement if a town decides to implement RCV and specifies that RCV elections can be subject to risk-limiting audits under certain conditions.
Bill: WAHB1448 – Increasing representation and voter participation in local elections.
Summary: This bill introduces a comprehensive framework for implementing ranked choice voting (RCV) in local elections across Washington state, allowing counties, cities, towns, school districts, fire districts, and port districts to adopt this alternative voting method. The bill defines two types of ranked choice voting: instant runoff voting for single-winner contests and single transferable vote for multi winner contests. Under this system, voters can rank candidates in order of preference, with ballots being counted in rounds where candidates with the fewest votes are eliminated until a winner emerges. For single-winner contests, jurisdictions must hold a primary to narrow candidates to a top five list, while multi winner contests do not require a primary. The bill creates a ranked choice voting work group to help the secretary of state develop implementation rules, voter education materials, and best practices. Key provisions include allowing jurisdictions to choose whether to designate positions by number and treat them as separate offices, specifying ballot design requirements, and establishing rules for how votes are counted, and ties are resolved. The legislation aims to provide consistent guidance for local governments interested in adopting ranked choice voting, with the goal of increasing voter representation and participation in local elections.
Bill: WYHB0165 – Ranked choice voting-prohibition.
Summary: This bill prohibits ranked choice voting (RCV) in Wyoming by amending existing election laws. Specifically, the bill defines ranked choice voting as a voting method that allows voters to rank candidates by preference and tabulate ballots in multiple rounds, eliminating candidates until winners are determined. The bill explicitly voids any existing or future ordinances by counties, municipalities, or other governmental entities that attempt to implement ranked choice voting. Additionally, the bill requires election ballots to clearly specify “Vote for one” or “Vote for Not More Than” with the appropriate number of candidates that can be elected for a specific office, ensuring voters understand they can only vote for a limited number of candidates. The changes to the election code will take effect on July 1, 2025, providing clarity and maintaining the state’s traditional voting method of selecting candidates based on the largest number of votes received.