The bill seeks to amend the Revised Code to prohibit ranked choice voting in Ohio and impose penalties on municipalities or chartered counties that adopt such voting methods. It introduces new definitions for "ranked choice voting" and "instant runoff voting," outlining the ranking process and vote tabulation. If a local government approves ranked choice voting, it will lose eligibility for Local Government Fund distributions from the state while the voting method is in effect. Additionally, the bill ensures that no elections, including primaries, can utilize ranked choice voting unless explicitly allowed by the Ohio Constitution. The Secretary of State is responsible for notifying the tax commissioner about any local government's ineligibility for funds due to this voting method.

Furthermore, the bill includes amendments related to Local Government Fund (LGF) payments, specifying that adjustments will be computed over a twelve-month period based on local authorities' compliance with reporting requirements. If a local authority fails to file a required report, the commissioner must notify county officials and adjust LGF payments accordingly. The legislation also establishes a new Ohio highway and transportation safety fund, funded by the total amount of reduced or ceased payments to local authorities, minus any school safety payments. The bill aims to enhance accountability and streamline the management of LGF payments while ensuring transparency in the process.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3501.01, 5747.502