Civic engagement is critical for the future success of our democracy — our government works better when everyone is given the opportunity to participate. We can foster such involvement at an early age by making it easier for young people to pre-register to vote.
 
That is why I plan to introduce legislation to permit 16- and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote. My bill would allow the state to provide resources for teachers to coordinate an annual voter registration/pre-registration event for high school students. Students who hold a valid driver’s license or state identification card would also be allowed to pre-register online. The pre-registrants would not be eligible to vote until they reach age 18, but they will be ready and registered when that day comes.
 
Numerous states are already engaging their young people in the civic process through pre-registration. Eighteen states and Washington, D.C. allow pre-registration beginning at 16 years old, and three other states allow pre-registration beginning at 17 years old. It is time for Pennsylvania to do the same. Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation.