Substitute Bill No. 1536 proposes the implementation of ranked-choice voting for various elections in Connecticut, including party caucuses, conventions, primaries, and certain municipal elections, effective January 1, 2027. The bill introduces new definitions related to ranked-choice voting and outlines the vote tabulation process, assigning the Secretary of the State the responsibility for creating the ballot type and instructions. It also repeals and replaces Section 9-173 of the general statutes, clarifying that the candidate with the highest number of votes will be declared elected, and if no candidate achieves a plurality, the General Assembly will select the officer. This shift aims to ensure that the election process aligns with the new ranked-choice voting system.

Additionally, the bill modifies the procedures for political party conventions and primaries, allowing parties that adopt ranked-choice voting to endorse candidates without a roll call vote. It establishes that a plurality of votes will suffice for nominations unless a party opts for ranked-choice voting. The bill also details the allocation of delegates in presidential preference primaries, requiring that candidates achieve at least fifteen percent of the total votes to qualify for delegate allocation. The Secretary of State is tasked with calculating necessary percentages and ensuring transparency in the delegate allocation process. Overall, the legislation seeks to modernize Connecticut's electoral framework, promoting more inclusive and representative voting practices.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 9-444, 9-473, 9-476, 9-484
GAE Joint Favorable Substitute: 9-173, 9-444, 9-473, 9-476, 9-484
File No. 675: 9-173, 9-444, 9-473, 9-476, 9-484
APP Joint Favorable: 9-173, 9-444, 9-473, 9-476, 9-484