Senator Carlucci Pushing For Voting Reform That Will Impact Teens Across The State

New City, NY – Senator David Carlucci (D-Rockland/Westchester) was joined by Rockland County Board of Elections Commissioner, Kristen Zebrowski Stavisky and local students at his New City Office on Friday to bring attention to a bill allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote.

Carlucci sponsors the bill (S.1100) in the New York State Senate, and it is expected to come to the floor for a vote on Monday, as a part of a package of democratic election reforms.

“New York’s voting laws lag behind much of the country, and historically voter turnout among young people is far lower than for other age groups,” said Senator David Carlucci. “Allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote is common sense legislation that will boost voter turnout and allow our young people to have their voices heard.”

Rockland County Democratic Commissioner Kristen Zebrowski Stavisky enthusiastically supports Senator Carlucci’s pre-registration bill.

“It is important that officials throughout the State of New York do everything possible to increase voter participation and ensure that all eligible voters have unfettered access to the polls. Voting is the foundation of a democratic society and as election commissioners, our job is to encourage and increase voter participation. This legislation provides critical access and education to 16 and 17-year-old potential voters. By easing the burden of registration and increasing our outreach efforts, we will build a stronger democracy and transform voting in New York State.”

According to United States census data, less than 20 percent of young people voted in 2014’s midterm elections, as compared to about 40 percent of the general population.

Senator Carlucci believes the legislation will boost voter turnout and make the process for first time voters easier. When young adults turn 18, they would no longer need to make a trip to the Board of Elections (BOE) or a state agency to register, but would be automatically registered by their local BOE.

Currently, 13 states and the District of Columbia allow 16 and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote. In Florida, pre-registering helped increase voter turnout by 3 - 14 percent, according to some studies.

“Right now, young people are demanding political change so let’s empower them by getting them civically involved in our election process early so they can make their voice heard,” said Senator David Carlucci.