The bill, titled "AN ACT enabling ranked-choice voting for municipal elections," introduces a new framework for implementing ranked-choice voting in New Hampshire. It amends existing laws by inserting a new section, RSA 652:16-i, which defines "ranked choice voting" and outlines the process for voters to rank candidates in order of preference. The bill also modifies RSA 669:23 to include specific instructions for ranked-choice voting on ballots, ensuring voters understand how to fill them out correctly. Additional amendments to RSA 656:42 and RSA 659:17 ensure that ballot counting devices can accurately process ranked-choice votes and that the Secretary of State provides clear guidance for voters.

Furthermore, the bill allows municipalities to opt-in to ranked-choice voting for local elections and permits political parties to use this voting method in their caucuses. It establishes procedures for counting votes, including rounds of elimination for candidates with the fewest votes, and addresses how to handle undervotes and inactive ballots. The act includes a severability clause to maintain the effectiveness of the remaining provisions if any part is deemed unconstitutional. The bill is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and while it is projected to have no immediate fiscal impact, there may be indeterminable increases in local expenditures starting in fiscal year 2026 if ranked-choice voting is adopted.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 669:23, 656:42, 659:17, 659:59, 659:73, 669:38