HB 1390-S - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 3/13/03)

Finds that it is in the public interest to adopt a voting system in which all successful candidates must win by a majority vote rather than a plurality of effective votes and that allows voters to vote secondary and other preferences in case their favorite candidate does not receive a majority of the votes cast.

Recognizes that the system known as instant runoff voting achieves that purpose.

Finds that voter interest and participation in elections will increase by use of instant runoff voting because a voter has more choices and all votes will be more meaningful than votes under the present system. The legislature declares it is in the interest of participatory democracy that voters be given the opportunity to vote their true beliefs with their first choice votes, while still making effective secondary choices among the remaining acceptable candidates.

Authorizes a pilot project to study the effects of using instant runoff voting as a local option for nonpartisan offices in charter cities.

Directs the secretary of state to conduct a pilot project on the use of instant runoff voting as a local option for nonpartisan offices in charter cities. The pilot project must begin by August 1, 2003, and conclude no later than June 30, 2008.