This bill amends the New Mexico Election Code to allow qualified residents who are sixteen or seventeen years old to register to vote in regular local elections, municipal elections, and special local elections. It introduces a new section, 1-4-2.1 NMSA 1978, which outlines the process for these younger residents to submit a voter registration certificate. Upon registration, a qualified resident will become a "regular local election voter" on their sixteenth birthday and can participate in elections if they turn sixteen on or before the election date.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that while these younger residents can register and be considered voters for specific local elections, they will not be considered voters for other types of elections until they reach eighteen. The effective date for these provisions is set for January 1, 2026. The bill aims to enhance civic engagement among younger residents by providing them with the opportunity to participate in local elections earlier.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 1-4-2