The bill amends Section 17-1-3 of the General Laws in Chapter 17-1, titled "General Provisions," to update the eligibility criteria for voting. The amendment, effective January 1, 2024, maintains that U.S. citizens at least 18 years old who have been residents of the state for at least 30 days and are registered to vote at least 30 days before an election are entitled to vote. It also allows those who will turn 18 by the time of a general election to vote in primary elections. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision that permits cities or towns with elected school committees to allow citizens who are at least 16 years old to register and vote in school committee elections, provided they meet the residency and registration requirements.

The inserted language in subsection (d) specifically enables municipalities to decide, through an ordinance, referendum, or other mechanisms, to grant voting rights in school committee elections to residents who are at least 16 years old. This provision is designed to encourage civic participation among younger residents in matters related to educational governance. The bill stipulates that these changes will take effect upon passage, meaning they will become law as soon as they are formally enacted.

Statutes affected:
2895: 17-1-3