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HJ 47

RESOLUTION PROPOSING A STATE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO ALLOW INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE ATTAINED THE AGE OF SIXTEEN TO APPLY FOR ADMISSION AS ELECTORS AND TO BE SO ADMITTED UPON ATTAINING THE AGE OF EIGHTEEN.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Elliott and 1 co-sponsor

Connecticut constitutional amendment enabling 16-year-olds to pre-register and vote at 18, expanding youth electoral participation through two-year preparation window.

FILE NO. 123
#age #stateconstitutionalamendments #voterregistration
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Bill Summary · HJ 47

Legislative bill overview

This resolution proposes amending Connecticut's state constitution to allow 16-year-olds to pre-register as voters, with full voting rights activated once they turn 18. Currently, Connecticut requires applicants to be at least 18 years old to register. The amendment would create a two-year window for civic engagement and voter preparation among teenagers.

Why is this important

Lowering pre-registration age could increase voter turnout among young adults by establishing voting habits earlier, while giving civically engaged teenagers a formal pathway to participate in democracy. However, it requires a constitutional amendment—a significant procedural hurdle requiring legislative supermajorities and voter approval—indicating contested support for the underlying policy change.

Potential points of contention

  • Cognitive maturity and decision-making: Opponents may argue that 16-year-olds lack sufficient life experience and cognitive development for permanent electoral decisions, while proponents counter they demonstrate adequate judgment in other legal contexts (driving, working)
  • Administrative burden and costs: Implementation requires voter registration system modifications, staff training, and potential increased processing volumes, with unclear fiscal impact
  • Partisan implications: Early voting registration may disproportionately engage certain demographic groups, raising questions about which parties benefit from expanded youth participation

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

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