Hawaii Senate Bill SCR101

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22

Caption

Requesting The Office Of Elections To Establish A Working Group To Conduct A Study On The Implications Of Changing The Minimum Voting Age In Hawaii To Expand Voter Participation.

Impact

The resolution outlines that Hawaii's voting statistics have seen a downward trend, with presidential elections between 2008 and 2016 recording the lowest turnout rates in the United States. The working group will explore not only the potential benefits of lowering the voting age but also the experiences of other states and countries that have implemented similar changes. By allowing younger citizens, who are already engaged in societal roles like earning income and paying taxes, the opportunity to vote, it may stimulate civic engagement and political awareness among the youth.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 101 (SCR101) requests the establishment of a working group by the Office of Elections in Hawaii to study the implications of changing the minimum voting age to enhance voter participation. The resolution reflects concerns regarding low voter turnout in Hawaii, which has historically seen decreased engagement from its citizens in recent elections. This initiative aims to address the need for a more inclusive voting population by potentially lowering the voting age, thus incorporating younger residents into the democratic process.

Contention

Key points of contention that the working group is instructed to consider include the pros and cons of lowering the voting age, as well as the specific application of such a change across different types of elections in Hawaii. The resolution calls for a report that will provide a detailed analysis and recommendations, highlighting the complexities surrounding voting rights and civic responsibilities for young individuals. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for community representation in discussions, ensuring that the voices of young residents are accounted for in this significant decision-making process.