Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

Vermont Senate Bill JRS039

Introduced
1/19/24  
Engrossed
1/25/24  
Passed
1/30/24  

Caption

Joint resolution establishing a procedure for the conduct of the election of two legislative trustees of the Vermont State Colleges Corporation by plurality vote by the General Assembly in 2024

Impact

If enacted, JRS039 would modify the electoral process specifically for this upcoming election of trustees, allowing all candidates to be voted on in a single ballot. Members of the General Assembly would have the opportunity to vote for as many candidates as there are vacancies, with the two candidates receiving the highest votes being declared elected. This alteration could set a precedent for future elections, indicating a preference for quicker and more efficient electoral procedures in the legislature.

Summary

JRS039 is a joint resolution that proposes a new procedure for electing two legislative trustees of the Vermont State Colleges Corporation. The resolution seeks to streamline the election process by allowing for a plurality vote to decide the winners. Instead of following the current provisions that require a more complicated voting process, JRS039 aims to simplify the election during a joint session of the General Assembly on February 15, 2024. This change is motivated by the goal of reducing the time spent in joint session for such elections, which has become increasingly necessary.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding JRS039 appears to be largely practical. Proponents of the resolution likely view it favorably, seeing it as a necessary reform to enhance the efficacy of the legislative process. While details on sentiment from opposition perspectives are limited, the rationale for simplifying voting procedures generally aligns with a move towards efficiency in government operations, indicating broad, if not universal, support for such measures.

Contention

A notable point of contention could arise if members have concerns regarding the implications of using a plurality vote. Critics may argue that this method could undermine democratic representation, especially if there are more than two candidates vying for trustee positions. However, as the resolution is positioned as a temporary measure for a particular election, it may face limited opposition unless broader implications are raised concerning trust and governance within the Vermont State Colleges Corporation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT JRS011

Joint resolution establishing a procedure for the conduct of the election of the University of Vermont and State Agricultural College trustees by plurality vote by the General Assembly in 2023

VT JRS013

Joint resolution establishing a procedure for the conduct of the election of the University of Vermont and State Agricultural College trustees by plurality vote by the General Assembly in 2025

VT JRS038

Joint resolution providing for a Joint Assembly for the election of an Adjutant and Inspector General, and two legislative Trustees of the Vermont State Colleges Corporation

VT HB4032

Relating to the election of junior college district trustees by plurality vote.

VT HB2645

Relating to the election of certain junior college district trustees by plurality vote.

VT S0238

An act relating to the Board of Trustees of the Vermont State Colleges Corporation

VT S0046

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)

VT HB4403

Relating to the election of junior college district trustees by plurality vote.

VT SB2504

Relating to the election of junior college district trustees by plurality vote.

VT HB419

Elections; election by plurality of votes instead of majority; provide

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.