Give All of America's Teenagers the Ability to Pre-Register to Vote.

I call on our nation’s lawmakers to enact federal legislation that will encourage America’s young citizens to take an active role in our democracy. Federal legislation that gives teenagers the ability to pre-register to vote at age 16 or 17 and be automatically added to the voter rolls when they turn 18 has the potential to increase voter turnout by young people. It also will help inspire them to pay attention to the issues in our country with the knowledge that they will soon be responsible for leading America by participating in the voting process. A federal pre-registration law will create a uniform age for pre-registration across the country. More states are passing laws that enable teenagers to pre-register, and now is the time to ensure all of America’s young people have this opportunity. High school students are required to take civics, and these lessons should go beyond lectures, textbooks, and homework. Allowing teenagers to pre-register to vote at the same time they are involved in civics class and are gaining the privilege to drive for the first time will send a strong message that our leaders expect them to become informed, responsible, and active citizens. I call on you, my leaders, in the name of all our future leaders, whether they be Democrat, Republican, Libertarian or Independent. Help us. Show us that you value our opinions and our voices. The nation is watching. Show us that you can come together in the name of America’s future.