The Youth Voting Rights Act would change rules for federal elections to expand youth access to voting. It would let residents apply to pre-register at age 16, require polling places on public college campuses unless a waiver is granted, and require other colleges to be asked for permission to host polling places. It would also require student ID cards to count where voter ID is required, extend protections against certain residency rules to federal elections, and treat age-based limits on voting by mail as possible violations of voting rights. The bill would allow lawsuits to enforce some of its rules, create grants for youth election activities, and require more age-based election data and studies.
People could apply to pre-register at 16, but would be registered to vote in federal elections only when they turn 18 and meet voting requirements. College students could have polling places on campus or other access options. Student ID cards would count where voter identification is required. The bill would also support youth civic activities, such as school programs and paid election fellowships.
The bill authorizes $26 million for the Youth Engagement Fund for fiscal year 2027. For later years, it authorizes an amount equal to $26 million minus the fund's unobligated balance from the prior year. The text does not state actual spending.
Congress's stated rationale is that age-related barriers can make it harder for young people to register and vote, and that easier access can support youth participation in elections.
No publicly available information.