Bill > S03231

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to modify voter eligibility rules, specifically allowing 17-year-olds to vote in primary elections if they will turn 18 by the time of the corresponding general election. Currently, voters must be 18 years old to participate in elections. The proposed change would enable 17-year-olds who are nearly 18 to have a voice in primary elections, which are used to select candidates for political parties before the general election. If approved, this amendment would require referral to the first regular legislative session after the next general assembly election and must be published for three months prior to that election, in accordance with the state constitution's procedural requirements for constitutional amendments. The bill aims to increase youth political participation by allowing older teenagers who will be eligible voters by the general election to have input in the candidate selection process during primary elections.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3231