The proposed bill seeks to enhance local representation and ensure fair elections in Washington State by permitting jurisdictions to adopt alternative election methods, specifically ranked choice voting and proportional representation, for a six-year period. This initiative responds to evolving federal voting rights protections and aims to provide local governments with the authority to implement these methods to promote equitable access to the electoral process and minimize vote dilution. The bill outlines the requirements for conducting elections using ranked choice voting, including ballot design, the ranking process, and the responsibilities of county auditors.

Furthermore, the bill amends various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to facilitate the implementation of ranked choice voting for elections involving county commissioners, city council members, school directors, fire commissioners, and port commissioners. It mandates that jurisdictions adopting ranked choice voting must inform the public and provide education on the new voting process, ensuring accessibility for all voters. The bill also clarifies financial responsibilities for implementing ranked choice voting, stating that costs incurred will be apportioned to the jurisdictions using this method, and emphasizes the importance of voter secrecy and the certification of voting devices. The legislation takes effect immediately, highlighting its urgency for maintaining public peace, health, or safety.

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