Maryland

Maryland state law allows cities to lower the voting age on the local level through a city council vote. So far, five cities have already made this change to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in municipal elections: Takoma Park, Greenbelt, Hyattsville, Riverdale Park, and Mount Rainier. The policy has proven to be a success, with 16- and 17-year-old voters turning out at higher rates than older voters, and with local leaders reporting young people engaging with city government in new ways. Building on the progress of these five cities, Vote16USA is working with local leaders to bring 16-year-old voting to new cities in the state. If you are interested in getting involved or have an idea for advancing Vote16 in Maryland, contact Brandon at bklugman@generationcitizen.org.