The bill seeks to amend the Ohio Revised Code to prohibit ranked choice voting and instant runoff voting in elections and primary elections. It defines both voting methods and outlines the process for ranking candidates and tabulating votes. Notably, if any county or municipal corporation adopts a resolution to implement ranked choice voting, it will lose eligibility for local government fund distributions from the state while that voting method is in effect. Additionally, municipalities or chartered counties that implement ranked choice voting will face financial penalties, specifically the withholding of local government funds.

The legislation also introduces amendments regarding local government fund payments, specifying that adjustments will be based on reports from local authorities and will last for twelve months. If reports are not filed on time, the commissioner must notify the county auditor and treasurer to resume payments. A new Ohio highway and transportation safety fund will be established to receive amounts equivalent to the reductions in payments to local authorities, aimed at enhancing public safety. The bill includes provisions for the cessation and resumption of payments based on compliance with filing requirements and the use of ranked choice voting, ensuring that payments are reinstated if any resolutions for ranked choice voting are rescinded.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3501.01, 5747.502
As Reported By Senate Committee: 3501.01, 5747.502
As Passed By Senate: 3501.01, 5747.502