At some point, all of us have wanted to grow up faster and do grown-up things; be independent, make our own decisions, or even vote. Well, one aspect of growing up - voting - may come earlier than you would’ve imagined in a resolution proposed by Arizona State Senator Juan Mendez.
Mendez requested an amendment to the Arizona constitution, specifically targeting Article VII, Section 2, which currently stipulates that an individual must be 18 years of age to participate in an election.
The bill, known as SCR 1033, aims to extend the ability to participate in elections to US citizens at least 16 years of age who have resided in Arizona for the prescribed period of time. This would apply to general elections, elective offices, and any questions submitted to the vote of the Arizona people.
The proposed amendment would maintain the right to vote, ensuring that no denial based on gender or those incapacitated or convicted of treason or felony would remain ineligible to vote unless restored according to Article VII, Section 2C.
However, it's important to note that this proposal is only a resolution, which represents legislative members' statement or decision to take action on their opinion of the matter. The resolution does instruct the Secretary of State to submit the proposed amendment to the voters in the national election per Article XXI of the Arizona constitution.
The resolution would need approval by the voters and proclamation by the governor to officially amend the Arizona constitution. Therefore, it may take some time to get through the process completely before Arizona could possibly enfranchise 16- and 17-year-old citizens in future elections. Or it may not happen at all.
Keep an eye out to see how SCR 1033 progresses and whether Arizona ultimately lowers the voting age to include 16- and 17-year-olds.
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