State Senator Gayle Slossberg
May 1, 2008
Slossberg Leads Senate in Approving Voting Rights For 17 Year-olds
Three-quarter votes in both chambers put measure on ballot in November
A resolution that would allow thousands of 17 year-olds to vote in a primary election, so long as they turn 18 before the general election, received approval tonight of three-quarters of the Connecticut Senate--led by state Senator Gayle Slossberg (D-Milford), chair of the Government Administration and Elections Committee--and will be on the ballot before the state's voters in November.
"This is an exciting time for young voters in our state. This fall, Connecticut's residents will vote on a resolution aimed at correcting a glaring inequity in our state's law," said Senator Slossberg. "Seventeen-year-old men and women often carry the weight of adult responsibilities. Some serve in the military, some hold part-time or full-time jobs and some work to help support their families. Despite these responsibilities, they are unable to cast their votes and make their voices heard. This is an opportunity for the state of Connecticut, and I hope that voters will approve this Constitutional amendment when they visit the polls this fall."
Nine other states--Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio and Virginia--currently allow 17 year-olds to vote in primaries as long as they turn 18 before the general election. Several other states are considering proposals to allow 17 year-olds to vote in primaries as well.
The United States Constitution does not deny 17 year-olds the right to vote. The 26th Amendment of the Constitution only states that the right of citizens who are 18 years of age or older shall not be denied by the United States or by any state on account of age.
The Senate passed the measure--House Joint Resolution 21--in a unanimous vote. The House of Representatives approved the measure in a 135-to-12 vote last week.
The 2008 regular legislative session adjourns on May 7.
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