Connecticut House Bill HB06092

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/15
• Refer: 1/22/15

Caption

An Act Encouraging Participation In The Electoral Process By Connecticut's Youth.

Impact

If enacted, HB 06092 would modify existing statutes under title 9 of the general statutes, thereby creating a pathway for youth to become engaged voters once they reach the legal voting age. By permitting preregistration at sixteen, the bill could potentially lead to increased participation rates among first-time voters. Supporters argue this will not only help young people to become acquainted with the voting process but also instill a sense of responsibility towards civic duties before they even reach voting age.

Summary

House Bill 06092 aims to encourage participation in the electoral process by allowing citizens aged sixteen years to preregister as electors in Connecticut. Under this proposed legislation, while sixteen-year-olds would have the ability to apply for admission as an elector, they would not officially become electors until they reach the age of eighteen. The bill emphasizes civic engagement among young people, acknowledging the importance of involving youth in the democratic process from an earlier age. This initiative is seen as a means to foster a lifelong habit of voting and participation in civic duties.

Contention

Despite its intent to engage youth in the electoral process, the bill may face opposition from those who believe that the age of eligibility should remain at eighteen without the option for preregistration. Critics might argue that at sixteen, individuals are not fully prepared to understand the complexities of electoral participation, raising concerns about the implications for informed voting. Furthermore, there may be logistical considerations regarding the systems needed to handle preregistrations and ensure that applications are appropriately processed by registrars of voters or town clerks.