This bill, called the Vote 16 Act, aims to change the rules for voting in Canadian elections and referendums. It would allow people as young as 16 and 17 years old to vote. Currently, only those 18 and older can vote. The bill would also let some election workers who are under 18 but at least 16 to help with elections. It updates several rules and definitions in the Canada Elections Act and related regulations to include these younger voters. The law would begin six months after it receives royal assent (formal approval by the monarch), unless officials announce an earlier start.
If the bill becomes law, Canadians who are 16 and 17 years old could vote in federal elections and referendums. People aged 14 and 15 would not be able to vote, but they would be considered "future electors" for some purposes. Election officials and workers aged 16 or 17 could also be involved in running elections. This change could give younger people more say in political decisions that affect their lives, such as education or climate policies. The bill does not change voting rules for adults over 18, who still make up the majority of voters.
The Fiscal Note provided estimates that implementing the Vote 16 Act may cost approximately $2 million. Most of this cost would go toward updating voting processes, training election workers, and informing the public about the new voting rules. There is no indication of new revenue generated by the bill. Overall, the government expects the financial impact to be limited but necessary for proper implementation.
Supporters argue that allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to vote will increase young people's engagement in politics. They believe early involvement can help develop good voting habits and encourage lifelong civic participation. Proponents also say that young people are directly affected by many policies, such as education and climate change, so they should have a say in elections. They note that some other countries already allow voting at age 16 and believe this step modernizes Canadian democracy.
Opponents argue that 16- and 17-year-olds may lack enough life experience to make informed voting decisions. They worry that this change could influence election outcomes and give younger voters an unfair advantage. Critics also express concern about whether young people fully understand the political process and the responsibilities of voting. Some believe this change could complicate election procedures and increase costs without clear benefits for society.