The R Street Institute has expressed support for Virginia Senate Bill 176, which seeks to expand the use of ranked-choice voting (RCV) in local elections. Robert Melvin, Northeast Region Director at the R Street Institute, delivered testimony before the House Privileges and Elections Committee on February 20, 2026.
Melvin stated, “Our mission at RSI is to engage in research and outreach to promote free markets and limited, effective government in many areas, including election and voting reform. This is why we are supportive of SB 176.”
Senate Bill 176 proposes to extend the option of ranked-choice voting beyond county boards of supervisors and city councils by repealing the current sunset provision that would end authorization for RCV in Virginia after July 1, 2031. If passed, local governments would be able to continue using RCV without a set expiration date. The bill also broadens eligibility so that other local bodies, such as town councils, could adopt this method if they choose. More information about the bill can be found on the Virginia General Assembly website.
Melvin explained that “Ranked-choice voting empowers voters to convey a more complete set of preferences, resulting in representation that better reflects the electorate’s will.” He added that allowing voters to rank candidates means their choices remain relevant even if their first preference does not win.
In 2020, Virginia lawmakers approved HB 1103 granting local governments authority to use RCV for certain offices; however, this applied only to county and city contests and excluded town council elections. The existing statute was designed as a pilot program with an expiration date of July 1, 2031 as detailed in state law. SB 176 aims to remove this limitation while maintaining local control over whether or not to implement RCV.
Addressing concerns about potential voter confusion with new systems like ranked-choice voting, Melvin cited research indicating voters adapt well: “Our findings suggest that, rather than avoiding it, voters will actively use the ability to rank candidates—particularly during primary contests.” He referenced Virginia Republicans’ successful use of RCV during their nomination process for Governor Glenn Youngkin in 2021 as reported by The New York Times.
Melvin concluded his testimony by emphasizing that SB 176 does not introduce a new voting system but makes technical adjustments extending its availability: “For these reasons, I urge you to support SB 176.”
