Substitute Bill No. 1536 proposes the implementation of ranked-choice voting for party caucuses, conventions, primaries, including presidential preference primaries, and certain municipal elections in Connecticut, effective January 1, 2027. The bill defines key terms related to ranked-choice voting and outlines the vote tabulation process, ensuring that elections held after the effective date can utilize this method. It also repeals and replaces Section 9-173 of the general statutes, clarifying that the candidate with the most votes will be declared elected, and if no candidate achieves a plurality, the General Assembly will select the officer. This shift aims to modernize the electoral process, allowing voters to express their preferences more fully.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws regarding primaries and nominations, establishing that a plurality of votes will suffice unless a major party opts for ranked-choice voting. It mandates that results from ranked-choice voting at conventions be recorded and publicly available for 180 days. The bill also addresses delegate allocation for presidential preference primaries, requiring that delegates be awarded to the candidate with the most votes, and outlines procedures for candidate withdrawals. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance voter choice and engagement while ensuring transparency and accountability in the electoral process, with all changes set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

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