The bill introduced on February 12, 2025, aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 3-1-52, which explicitly prohibits ranked choice voting in all elections within the state. The bill defines ranked choice voting, also known as instant runoff voting, as a method where voters rank candidates by preference, and votes are tabulated in rounds until a candidate achieves a majority. It further clarifies that no state, county, or local elections office may utilize this voting method for any local, statewide, or federal elective office.

Additionally, the bill states that any local government ordinance that conflicts with this prohibition will be considered void. This legislative action reflects a clear intent to standardize the voting process in West Virginia by eliminating ranked choice voting as an option for elections.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 3-1-52