On January 29, 2024, the West Virginia State Legislature introduced House Bill 5282, aimed at prohibiting ranked choice voting within the state. This legislative proposal seeks to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, §3-1-52, which explicitly defines ranked choice voting and outlines its prohibition for all local, state, and federal elections.

The bill defines ranked choice voting as a method where voters rank candidates in order of preference, with votes tabulated in rounds that eliminate the least supported candidates and reallocate their votes to remaining candidates. Under this proposed legislation, any election utilizing ranked choice voting would be deemed invalid, and officials elected through such a process would not be allowed to assume office.

Notably, the bill does allow for ranked choice voting to be used in the internal processes of political parties, such as conventions and the election of party officers, indicating a limited scope of application for this voting method.

The introduction of House Bill 5282 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and constituents regarding the implications of such a prohibition. Proponents argue that traditional voting methods are more straightforward and easier for voters to understand, while opponents contend that ranked choice voting can enhance electoral fairness by allowing voters to express preferences beyond a single candidate.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it may face debates regarding its potential impact on voter engagement and election outcomes. Experts suggest that the prohibition could limit options for voters and may hinder efforts to reform electoral processes in the state.

The bill's future remains uncertain as it awaits further discussion and potential amendments in upcoming legislative sessions. If passed, House Bill 5282 would solidify West Virginia's stance against ranked choice voting, aligning the state with a more traditional electoral framework.