The bill seeks to improve representation and voter participation in local elections in Washington State by establishing a framework for ranked choice voting (RCV). It allows various jurisdictions, including counties, cities, and school districts, to implement RCV with specific guidelines for ballot design, candidate ranking, and tie resolution procedures. Jurisdictions adopting RCV are required to consult with county auditors to set an implementation timeline, ideally within two years, unless a court order specifies otherwise. Key amendments include the option for jurisdictions to conduct a primary election to narrow candidates to five for single-winner contests, while multi-winner contests will not require a primary. The bill also clarifies the use of RCV for county commissioners and local offices, repealing conflicting existing laws and setting a deadline for the Secretary of State to adopt necessary rules by May 1, 2026.

Additionally, the bill mandates that when RCV is adopted, the county auditor must inform the public and conduct a voter education campaign tailored to diverse community needs. It outlines the financial responsibilities for implementing RCV, stating that costs incurred by counties will be apportioned to the jurisdictions using this voting method. The legislation also includes provisions for the arrangement of offices on ballots and stipulates that it will become null and void if specific funding is not allocated by June 30, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to enhance electoral processes and increase voter engagement through the adoption of ranked choice voting.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 29A.60.221, 29A.36.131, 29A.52.220, 36.32.040, 29A.92.040, 35A.12.040, 28A.343.320, 29A.04.410, 29A.12.080, 29A.36.121, 29A.04.127
Substitute Bill: 29A.60.221, 29A.36.131, 29A.52.220, 36.32.040, 29A.92.040, 35A.12.040, 28A.343.320, 29A.04.410, 29A.12.080, 29A.36.121, 29A.04.127
Second Substitute: 29A.60.221, 29A.36.131, 29A.52.220, 36.32.040, 29A.92.040, 35A.12.040, 28A.343.320, 29A.04.410, 29A.12.080, 29A.36.121, 29A.04.127