California lawmakers are taking significant steps to boost youth voter engagement with the introduction of SB 316, the High School Voter Registration Act. This proposed legislation aims to allow 16 and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote, ensuring they are automatically registered when they turn 18. The bill also seeks to provide essential information about voting procedures, including in-person voting, mail-in ballots, and resources for voters with disabilities.

During a recent Assembly Elections Committee meeting, supporters highlighted the alarming decline in voter turnout among young Californians. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, voter participation among 18 to 24-year-olds dropped by 12.7 percentage points in 2024. Advocates argue that current civic education efforts are insufficient, leaving many students unaware of their voting rights and how to engage in the electoral process.

Ruben Torres, a high school student from San Bernardino, emphasized the need for practical civic education that goes beyond theoretical knowledge. He noted that many students feel intimidated or powerless when it comes to voting, often due to a lack of guidance on how to participate. SB 316 aims to change this by ensuring that every eleventh-grade student receives clear, actionable information about voter registration and civic engagement.

Ruth Sosa Martinez, a policy strategist with Power CA Action, echoed these sentiments, stressing that the bill addresses equity in civic education. She pointed out that while existing laws encourage voter registration in schools, implementation has been inconsistent, particularly in low-income and rural areas. SB 316 seeks to create a standardized approach, requiring high schools to distribute voter registration materials and information to students before they graduate.

The committee's discussions underscored the importance of fostering a culture of civic engagement among young people. By equipping students with the knowledge and tools to participate in democracy, California aims to cultivate a generation of informed voters who are actively involved in shaping their communities. As the state prepares for the 2028 elections, SB 316 represents a proactive effort to ensure that youth voices are heard and valued in the democratic process.