Massachusetts has taken a big step into the 21st century by reforming its voting laws and practices. 

Young voters hold the key to the future of the country and are an important part of the electorate. Just like every other age group, they are frustrated with political officials. Yet despite this frustration, there has been a slight increase in youth voter turnout over the past few years. Even with the increase in turnout, young voters still vote at a lesser rate than voters of other age groups. It is a problem that needs to be addressed because the strength of our democracy depends on all voters participating.

17-year-old primary voting is a great way to start getting young people involved in the political process. Unfortunately, many election and party officials do not promote it.

The electoral reform organization Why Tuesday? held a conference on November 7 to address existing voting barriers, and offered solutions on how to fix an electoral system that is still functioning under 20th century guidelines. Panelists presented information on issues such as restrictive voter ID laws, voter fraud, and ways to modernize the registration process.

 “The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of age.” While the language of the 26th amendment is intended to serve young people well, it still leaves open a loophole in Constitutional law- while young people cannot be discriminated against based on their age, they can be denied the chance to vote, or have their ability to vote abridged, for reasons that can also undercut voting rights for older citizens. 

 Beginning on March 23rd, students across the country will have the chance to learn about something that many of us take for granted - and not enough of us exercise - our right to vote.

When naming important holidays, Constitution Day will not make most people’s shortlist. But maybe, it should.

On September 8, Delaware governor Jack A. Markell signed into law a bill allowing 16-year-olds to preregister to vote.  The passage of the law makes Delaware the sixth state (plus the District of Columbia) to adopt youth preregistration reforms aimed at engaging young citizens in the political process.

Delaware recently became the 6th state to pass Youth Voter Pre-Registration legislation. Here's why that victory is so important to FairVote's overall mission.