Rhode Island House Bill H7380

Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/26
• Refer: 1/28/26

Caption

Prohibits the use of ranked choice voting in all local, state and federal public office elections.

Impact

The proposed legislation will significantly alter the existing framework of electoral processes. By expressly prohibiting ranked choice voting, it reverses any movement towards more inclusive voting methods aimed at enhancing voter choice and ensuring a more representative electoral outcome. Existing or future local ordinances that conflict with this state-level mandate will be invalid. Therefore, it centralizes authority on voting methods within the state legislature, thereby limiting local jurisdictions from innovating or adapting their voting systems to better suit their constituents' preferences.

Summary

House Bill H7380 mandates a prohibition on the use of ranked choice voting in all public elections across local, state, and federal levels. Introduced on January 28, 2026, the bill amends Chapter 17-19 of the General Laws concerning the conduct of elections and voting equipment. The key provisions outlaw any voting systems that allow voters to cast votes for multiple candidates or rank candidates for a single office, as well as systems that reallocate votes among candidates. This bill is designed to maintain a conventional voting method where voters select only one candidate per office without any transfer of votes.

Contention

Critics of the bill may argue that this move undermines democratic principles by rejecting a method of voting that can address concerns related to vote splitting and promote more equitable representation. Supporters might contend that ranked choice voting complicates the electoral process, leading to voter confusion and misinterpretation of results. As discussions around electoral reform continue, H7380 embodies the tension between traditional voting practices and the push for more progressive electoral systems that reflect the evolving dynamics of voter preferences.