H 831
An Act relative to age requirements in local elections
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Bill overview
This bill seeks to eliminate age restrictions for voting in local elections in Massachusetts. Currently, residents must be 18 years or older to vote in local elections, but this legislation proposes removing this requirement. The goal is to allow all adults, regardless of age, to participate in local government decisions. This change would broaden voter access and potentially increase civic engagement at the local level.
Key provisions
- Removes the minimum age requirement for voting in local elections.
- Applies to all local elections within Massachusetts.
- Does not alter the minimum age for state or federal elections.
- Aligns Massachusetts with other states that have eliminated similar age restrictions.
- Allows 17-year-olds to vote in local elections.
Who is affected
- Eligible voters in Massachusetts
- Local election officials
- Residents of Massachusetts
Notable changes
- Changes the voting age requirement for local elections only.
- Expands the electorate by allowing 17-year-olds to vote.
Sponsors
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Primary sponsor
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Bill H.831 194th (Current)
An Act relative to age requirements in local elections
By Representatives Garballey of Arlington and Lewis of Framingham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 831) of Sean Garballey, Jack Patrick Lewis and Tara T. Hong relative to age requirements in local elections. Election Laws.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenters: Sean Garballey , Jack Patrick Lewis
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Committee Summary Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 5 actions for Bill H.831
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on Election Laws |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 4/28/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 05/06/2025 from 01:00 PM-04:00 PM in B-1 |
| House | Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order | |
| 3/19/2026 | House | Accompanied a study order, see H5253 (under House Rule 27) |
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