Bill > H814

This bill seeks to fundamentally change voting eligibility for children by introducing several key provisions that would enable younger individuals to participate in elections. The bill defines "capacity to make voting decisions independently" as the ability to understand voting consequences and reach informed decisions without significant caregiver input. It modifies existing election laws by replacing references to "years" with "days" in several sections, suggesting a dramatic lowering of voting age. The bill establishes two non-partisan voter challenge programs: one targeting birth centers, childcare centers, and pediatric medical practices, and another focusing on schools and afterschool programs. These programs aim to provide voter registration opportunities for eligible voters, with schools potentially allowing students to serve as voter outreach coordinators. Additionally, the bill allows voters who lack independent decision-making capacity to receive guidance from family members when casting ballots, with a provision that the ballot will not be counted if the voter indicates they do not want it to be. The bill also requires that the names and addresses of persons under 17 who request it be included on street lists, and mandates that registrars notify residents about voter registration opportunities for themselves and their dependent family members. Overall, this legislation appears to be a comprehensive attempt to lower voting barriers and increase electoral participation for younger individuals.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H814