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House passes resolution commending cities that piloted ranked‑choice voting
Summary
The House adopted HCR8 recognizing Payson, Vineyard and Utah County for participating in a municipal ranked‑choice voting pilot; sponsor cited post-election polling showing broad voter and candidate support and minimal administrative burden.
The Utah House of Representatives on Feb. 12 adopted Concurrent House Resolution 8 to commend Payson, Vineyard and Utah County for participating in the municipal alternate voting methods pilot program that used ranked‑choice (instant‑runoff) voting.
Representative Roberts, the sponsor, recounted the pilot that followed 2018 legislation allowing municipalities to opt in to ranked‑choice voting for municipal races. He told members that about seven cities initially expressed interest, and that Payson and Vineyard — working with Utah County election officials — conducted the pilot.
Roberts cited post‑election polling: "82.5% of respondents said instant runoff voting should be used in future elections," and he said candidates also reported positive impressions, with about "87 and a half percent" expressing favorable views. He added that election offices reported no increase in calls or questions compared with other elections and that officials were able to run, count and produce results in a similar timeframe.
Supporters such as Representative Shipp described local experience using the method in Iron County and urged support. Representative Peterson noted firsthand positive feedback from Vineyard officials and residents.
The House passed HCR8 by voice vote with 67 yes and 2 no votes; it will be transmitted to the Senate for consideration.
The resolution commends local election officials and participating cities; it does not change state election law and only recognizes the pilot participants.
