Bill > H4499

This bill proposes to authorize ranked choice voting in the town of Arlington through a ballot referendum. Specifically, the bill requires that a ballot question be presented to Arlington voters at either a regular state/town election or a special election, asking whether they approve an act authorizing ranked choice voting in their municipality. The town attorney is tasked with preparing a summary of the proposed legislation to accompany the ballot question. If a majority of voters cast an affirmative vote, the act will take effect in Arlington; otherwise, it will not be implemented. Ranked choice voting is an electoral system where voters can rank candidates in order of preference, which allows for more nuanced voter expression compared to traditional "vote for one" balloting. The bill would take effect immediately upon its passage, setting the stage for a local vote on changing Arlington's electoral process.