The bill titled "An Act providing a local option for ranked choice voting in municipal elections" aims to allow cities and towns in Massachusetts the option to implement ranked choice voting for local elections. It amends Section 44A of chapter 43 of the General Laws to include a reference to section 103R of chapter 54, which introduces the new ranked choice voting system. Additionally, it modifies Section 77 of chapter 54 by replacing the existing voting method description with a more flexible phrase that allows for ballots to be marked in a manner prescribed by the state secretary.

Under the new section 103R, municipalities that choose to adopt ranked choice voting will enable voters to rank candidates in order of preference, with elections being tabulated using the single transferable vote method. The bill outlines the requirements for local ordinances or by-laws that govern the implementation of this voting method, including how to handle eliminated candidates and tie situations. It also mandates that municipalities conduct voter education campaigns about ranked choice voting and allows for a return to the previous voting method after a minimum of four years, subject to voter approval.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 43-44A, 54-77