Hawaii House Bill HB473

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/25
• Refer: 1/21/25

Caption

Relating To Voter Registration.

Impact

If enacted, the bill will amend existing voter registration processes in Hawaii's state statutes. It sets the framework for automatically registering or preregistering students who meet the age and enrollment requirements upon their submission of a voter registration affidavit. This automatic process aims to streamline voter registration and make it more accessible for young residents, thereby encouraging them to become habitual voters as they grow older.

Summary

House Bill 473 aims to enhance voter registration in the state of Hawaii by introducing automatic preregistration for students aged sixteen and older who are enrolled in public, charter, or private schools. By allowing these students to preregister as soon as they reach the eligible age, the bill seeks to empower a new generation of voters and combat the historically low voter turnout and registration rates in the state. The bill is designed to promote civic engagement and ensure that young individuals are prepared to participate in the electoral process as they reach voting age.

Contention

There might be concerns regarding privacy and the management of voter registration information among teenagers, especially considering the automatic nature of this registration process. Critics may question the effectiveness of targeting a young demographic and whether the proposed measures will adequately address the challenges of low voter turnout. Furthermore, discussions may arise on the responsibility of educational institutions and governmental agencies in handling sensitive information and ensuring students are informed about their voting rights.