Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H4223

Introduced
6/16/25  

Caption

Lowering the voting age in municipal elections in the town of Arlington

Impact

If enacted, HB 4223 will amend existing election laws specifically pertaining to voting age and local governance in Arlington. The alteration will establish a separate list of local voters who are 16 and 17 years old, facilitating their registration through a distinct process overseen by the town clerk. This legislative move is aimed at fostering a politically aware generation by allowing them to contribute to and influence local decisions and governance. The bill also allows the town of Arlington to implement bylaws necessary for the realization of this act.

Summary

House Bill 4223 proposes to lower the voting age to permit individuals aged 16 and 17 who reside in the Town of Arlington, Massachusetts, to participate in local municipal elections. It aims to redefine local voting eligibility, allowing these younger residents to vote on local offices, ballot questions, and at town meetings. The bill seeks to provide an opportunity for greater civic engagement among youth, engaging them in the democratic process at an earlier age. This legislative change is predicated on the belief that younger citizens have valuable perspectives regarding local issues that should be heard through their participation in elections.

Contention

Opposition may arise around HB 4223 primarily concerning the implications of lowering the voting age. Critics might argue that individuals aged 16 and 17 lack the maturity and experience to make informed voting decisions, claiming that such a change could dilute the seriousness of the electoral process. Moreover, there could be concerns regarding the administrative burden of managing separate voter registration lists and ensuring electoral integrity. Supporters, however, emphasize the importance of youth participation in democracy, suggesting that enfranchising these young voters could lead to increased interest in civic duties and community involvement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA H685

Authorizing the town of Arlington to offer early voting in town elections

MA H684

Relative to ranked choice voting in the town of Arlington

MA H3973

Granting the town of Acton the authority to provide legal voting rights in municipal elections for town residents aged 16 and 17 years old

MA H4027

Allowing print free digital legal notices for the town of Arlington

MA H4026

Amending the town manager act of Arlington relative to the appointment of the town manager

MA H2801

Establishing a real estate transfer fee upon the transfer of property in the town of Arlington

MA H3165

Authorizing the town of Arlington to adopt and enforce local regulations restricting the use of fossil fuels in certain construction

MA H712

Enabling cities and towns to extend voting rights in municipal elections to certain noncitizens of the Commonwealth

MA H804

Authorizing the town of Arlington to prohibit use of second generation anti-coagulant rodenticides by commercial pesticide applicators

MA H4028

Allowing exempting the town of Arlington from the provisions of chapter 31 of the General Laws as they concern the recruitment and hiring of full time permanent police officers

Similar Bills

TX HR164

Recognizing January 28, 2015, as Team Arlington Day at the State Capitol.

VA SJR110

Commending the Arlington Chamber of Commerce.

VA HR171

Commending the Arlington Heights Civic Association and the Bibury Parish Council.

TX HR158

Recognizing January 30, 2013, as Team Arlington Day at the State Capitol.

TX SR22

Recognizing January 30, 2013, as Team Arlington Day.

VA SR620

Celebrating the life of Francis Xavier O'Leary.

VA HR764

Celebrating the life of Francis Xavier O'Leary.

VA HJR235

Commending Scott McGeary.