Bill > H4096

This bill amends the special act charter of the city of Northampton to expand voting rights by allowing residents who are sixteen years of age or older to participate in preliminary elections, special elections, and regular city elections. Currently, voting in municipal elections is typically limited to those 18 and older, so this bill represents a significant change in local electoral participation. The proposed amendment would enable younger residents to have a voice in local government by inserting new language into Article 8 of the city's charter, specifically creating a new section (Article 8-6) that defines voting qualifications. The bill stipulates that any Northampton resident aged 16 or older who is not otherwise disqualified under state law can vote in city elections, including those for ward councilors and ward school committee members. To accommodate this new provision, the existing charter will be renumbered, with current sections 8-6 and 8-7 becoming 8-7 and 8-8 respectively. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage, potentially making Northampton a pioneering municipality in youth electoral engagement.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4096