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HB 2408

To Prohibit Ranked Choice Voting in WV

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Brooks and 9 co-sponsors

House Bill 2408 prohibits ranked choice voting in West Virginia, ensuring traditional voting methods for all elections, impacting voters and local election offices.

To House Legal Services
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Bill Summary · HB 2408

Summary of House Bill 2408: Prohibition of Ranked Choice Voting in West Virginia

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 2408
- Title: To Prohibit Ranked Choice Voting in West Virginia
- Status: To House Legal Services
- Introduced: March 14, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Elections

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2408 aims to prohibit the use of ranked choice voting (RCV) in all elections conducted within the state of West Virginia. The bill seeks to ensure that traditional voting methods remain in place for local, state, and federal elections, thereby eliminating the option for voters to rank candidates in order of preference.

Key Provisions

The bill includes the following significant provisions:

  1. Definition of Ranked Choice Voting:

    • RCV is defined as a voting method where voters rank candidates based on preference, and votes are tabulated in rounds until a candidate achieves a majority.

  2. Prohibition of Ranked Choice Voting:

    • The bill explicitly states that no state, county, or local elections office may implement ranked choice voting for any elections or nominations for local government, statewide, or federal offices.

  3. Conflict with Local Ordinances:

    • Any local government ordinance that conflicts with this prohibition is rendered void.

Impact

  • Affected Entities:

    • The bill will impact all local governments, municipalities, and election offices in West Virginia, as they will no longer have the option to use ranked choice voting in their electoral processes.

  • Voter Experience:

    • Voters will continue to use traditional voting methods, which may affect the dynamics of elections, particularly in races with multiple candidates.

  • Election Administration:

    • Election officials will need to adjust their procedures and training to align with the prohibition of ranked choice voting.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • Introduced on March 14, 2025.
    • Referred to the House Committee on Legal Services for further consideration.

Conclusion

House Bill 2408 represents a significant legislative move to maintain traditional voting methods in West Virginia by prohibiting ranked choice voting. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be important for stakeholders, including voters and election officials, to stay informed about its implications and potential outcomes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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