Establishes an instant runoff form of ranked choice voting limited, to general assembly primary elections, with three (3) or more candidates.
Impact
The introduction of ranked choice voting under HB H5275 would amend existing laws governing primary elections. This reform aims to minimize the challenges associated with traditional runoff elections, which can often lead to lower voter turnout and less representative outcomes. By allowing voters to rank candidates, the bill intends to ensure that the elected representatives reflect a broader consensus among voters. However, the implementation would necessitate changes to voting infrastructure and widespread voter education to ensure comprehension and proper usage of the new voting method, with an effective date set for January 1, 2026.
Summary
House Bill H5275 seeks to implement an instant runoff voting system for the primary elections of the Rhode Island General Assembly, applicable when there are three or more candidates. This bill aims to modify the existing electoral system to allow voters to rank candidates based on their preferences, thereby potentially enhancing the representational aspect of elections and reducing the likelihood of candidates winning without majority support. The implications of ranked choice voting are significant, as they might transform the electoral landscape in Rhode Island by promoting more diverse candidates and more engaging electoral contests.
Contention
The bill may face contention from various stakeholders, including traditionalists who favor the current electoral process and believe it serves the state's democratic needs adequately. Opponents argue that implementing ranked choice voting could complicate the voting process and lead to voter confusion, particularly among those less familiar with how to rank candidates. Additionally, concerns about the costs associated with transitioning to this new voting system, such as updating voting machines and training election officials, may arise if the bill moves forward.
Establishes the Ranked Choice Voting for Rhode Island Presidential Primaries and provides for new sections on Ranked Choice Voting Tabulation and Results Reporting.
Spells out rules and regulations for the presidential preference primary elections, and would also provide rules for ranked choice voting tabulation, and results reporting by the secretary of state.
Senate Resolution Creating A Special Senate Commission To Study Non-plurality Voting Methods And Runoff Elections For General Assembly And General Officer Primaries (creates A 7 Member Commission To Study Non-plurality Voting And Runoff Elections For General Assembly And General Officer Primaries, And Report Back To The President Of The Senate By October 31, 2023, And Expire On December 31, 2023)
Includes the general assembly elections within the category of elections subject to the risk-limiting audits within the jurisdiction of the board of elections.
Includes the general assembly elections within the category of elections subject to the risk-limiting audits within the jurisdiction of the board of elections.