This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to allow political subdivisions in Minnesota to lower the voting age to 16 for local elections. If adopted, the amendment will modify Article VII, Section 1 of the Minnesota Constitution to state that while individuals must be 18 years of age to vote in general elections, counties, municipalities, or school districts may permit 16-year-olds to vote in local elections, provided they meet all other voter eligibility requirements. The proposed amendment will be submitted to voters during the 2026 general election, asking whether they support this change.

In addition to the constitutional amendment, the bill includes conforming changes to various sections of the Minnesota Statutes. These changes clarify that individuals aged 16 and older may vote in local elections, and they outline the necessary voter registration requirements and procedures for those under 18. The bill specifies that individuals under 18 can only vote for local offices and questions, and it establishes that the voting age change will take effect on January 1, 2027, contingent upon voter approval of the amendment in 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 201.014, 201.071, 203B.21, 204C.10