Louisiana House Bill HR2

Louisiana 2020 1st Special Session

• Introduced: 6/4/20
• Refer: 6/4/20

Caption

Requests that the governing authority of each public high school provide for an annual student voter registration drive

Impact

The resolution highlights the role of civic education as a prerequisite for high school graduation, emphasizing that voter registration drives can serve as practical lessons in civics for students. The push for annual drives reflects a broader goal of increasing voter turnout among young adults in the state, potentially influencing the political landscape by ensuring that younger generations are well-informed and actively participating in the democratic process.

Summary

House Resolution 2 (HR2) is a legislative effort aimed at enhancing civic engagement among high school students in Louisiana by urging public high schools to conduct annual voter registration drives. This initiative recognizes the importance of fostering a culture of political participation among young citizens and aligns with the educational mission to teach students about their rights and responsibilities in a democracy. By targeting high school students, the bill seeks to capitalize on their eligibility to register to vote upon turning 18, thereby encouraging future participation in elections.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR2 appears to be positive, particularly among educators and civic organizations that advocate for greater political engagement. Supporters believe that by providing opportunities for students to register to vote at school, the bill will empower them and instill a sense of responsibility towards civic duties. However, there could be some contention regarding the execution of these drives, particularly in terms of resource allocation and the extent to which schools will prioritize such initiatives alongside their educational obligations.

Contention

While HR2 requests the governing authorities of high schools to facilitate voter registration drives, it does not impose mandatory requirements or penalties for non-compliance. This may lead to disparities in implementation across different schools, depending on local administration's priorities. Critics might argue about the adequacy of such initiatives in actually increasing voter registration rates, suggesting that without robust support and resources, the resolution's objectives could be undermined, resulting in varying levels of effectiveness across the state.