(COLUMBUS) - Ohio lawmakers have approved legislation that would prohibit ranked choice voting and block cities from adopting the election system.
WCMH-TV reports that Senate Bill 63 passed the House by a 63-27 vote after earlier Senate approval and now heads to Gov. Mike DeWine for consideration. The measure could also withhold state funding from municipalities that attempt to implement ranked choice elections.
Ranked choice voting allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference, with ballots redistributed until one candidate secures a majority. The system is used statewide in Maine and Alaska, but no Ohio cities currently employ it.
Supporters argue the process is confusing, costly and prone to errors. Critics say the law would limit local control by preventing communities from choosing their own voting methods.
Governor DeWine can sign the bill, veto it or allow it to become law without his signature.