Hawaii Senate Bill SB824

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/21
• Refer: 1/29/21

Caption

Proposing An Amendment To The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Amend The Qualifying Age Of Voters For Any State Or Local Election.

Impact

If passed, SB824 would amend Article II, Section 1 of the Constitution of Hawaii to adjust the voting age. This change may catalyze a significant shift in voter demographics, allowing younger individuals, specifically those aged sixteen and seventeen, to influence decisions on matters that directly affect them. Supporters argue that early engagement in voting can enhance lifelong voting habits and that these young voters have the capacity to contribute meaningfully to the electoral process.

Summary

SB824 proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Hawaii that seeks to lower the qualifying voting age for state and local elections from eighteen to sixteen years. The bill is motivated by the desire to increase civic engagement among young people, as studies indicate that establishing a voting habit early can lead to higher participation rates in future elections. The legislature notes that many sixteen and seventeen-year-olds already fulfill responsibilities such as working, paying taxes, and obtaining driver's licenses, thereby making a case for their inclusion in the voting process.

Contention

The amendment could face opposition based on concerns regarding the maturity and informed decision-making abilities of younger voters. Critics may argue that sixteen-year-olds lack the life experience necessary to make informed electoral choices. Additionally, there is a discussion about the adequacy of civic education in schools to equip these young voters with the knowledge they need to participate effectively in elections. The bill aims to address these concerns by proposing robust civic education as part of the strategy to promote voting among young individuals.