OKLAHOMA CITY – House Bill 1678 is now law after passing both chambers of the Oklahoma Legislature and advancing without the governor’s signature. The bill, authored by Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, updates procedures for how tie votes are handled in Oklahoma elections. 

HB1678, originally intended to mandate a runoff in the event of a tie vote, was amended in the Senate before final passage. The new law still relies on a random drawing to determine the winner in tied races but provides more structure and transparency in how those drawings are conducted.

“Even though it's not exactly what we wanted in the end, it will be better for drawing up the rules,” Townley said. “This is still a step in the right direction to make sure these decisions are made clearly, publicly and by a process people can understand.”

While it maintains the current practice of settling tied elections by lot, it now requires clearer notification protocols, uniform materials, and a standardized method for conducting the drawing in front of witnesses. 

“People should feel confident that even in rare cases like a tie, our system is consistent and fair,” Townley said. 

Townley proposed the legislation after a 2024 primary race in Carter County was decided by a drawing. The bill is set to take effect November 1, 2025.