On January 15th, Representatives Andy Vargas, Dylan Fernandes, and Senator Harriette Chandler introduced the HD1132/SD1949, the EMPOWER Act. This would give all cities and towns in Massachusetts the option to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in their municipal elections, without needing to pass a home rule petition. It allows cities and towns to expand the franchise for its elections at their discretion. Those that wish to see 16 and 17 year olds voting would advocate for the issue at the local level.
Here are some resources you can use to help ensure this bill pass!
Use this Phone script to call your State Representatives to encourage them to support the bill. If you don’t know who represents your area, you can find your Representative here.
Use this Email template to follow up your call.
Follow @Vote16MA and @Vote16USA for updates and more information!