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Bill

HJRES 16

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States extending the right to vote to citizens sixteen years of age or older.

119th Congress Introduced by Suzanne Bonamici and 6 co-sponsors

HJRES 16 proposes lowering the voting age to 16, allowing millions of young citizens to vote, enhancing civic engagement and potentially shifting election outcomes.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJRES 16

Summary of HJRES 16: Constitutional Amendment to Extend Voting Rights

Bill Information
- Bill Number: HJRES 16
- Title: Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States extending the right to vote to citizens sixteen years of age or older.
- Status: Introduced in House
- Introduced Date: January 09, 2025
- Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HJRES 16 aims to amend the United States Constitution to extend voting rights to citizens who are sixteen years of age or older. This proposal seeks to lower the voting age from the current minimum of eighteen, thereby allowing younger citizens to participate in the electoral process.

Key Provisions

  • Repeal of the Twenty-Sixth Amendment: The bill proposes the repeal of the twenty-sixth article of amendment, which currently establishes the voting age as eighteen years. This repeal is a critical step in enabling the proposed change to the voting age.

  • Ratification Process: The amendment would become valid once ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the states (38 out of 50 states) within seven years of its submission for ratification.

Impact

  • Affected Population: If ratified, the amendment would grant voting rights to approximately 16- and 17-year-olds, significantly expanding the electorate. This demographic change could influence election outcomes and policy discussions, particularly those affecting youth and education.

  • Engagement in Democracy: Proponents argue that allowing younger citizens to vote would encourage civic engagement and responsibility among youth, fostering a habit of participation in democratic processes from an earlier age.

Legislative Actions

  • January 09, 2025: The bill was introduced in the House and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.

Conclusion

HJRES 16 represents a significant shift in the approach to voting rights in the United States, aiming to empower younger citizens by lowering the voting age. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be essential to monitor discussions and debates surrounding its implications for democracy and youth engagement.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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