MA H4223The bill allows 16 and 17-year-olds in Arlington, Massachusetts, to vote in local elections. These young residents can apply to a special list of voters kept by the town clerk. Once they turn 18, they must register as regular voters under state law. The bill does not allow them to vote in state or federal elections.
MA H4223 is a house bill in the Massachusetts 194th General Court, sponsored by Sean Garballey (D), currently “Introduced” since June 16, 2025.
We track 6,558 Massachusetts bills this session, 38 of them sponsored by Sean Garballey.
Supporters praise the bill for empowering young people in Arlington by giving them a voice in local governance. It encourages civic engagement and allows residents who are 16 and 17 to participate in important local decisions that affect their community.
Critics argue that the bill complicates the voting process by creating separate voter lists and may lead to administrative challenges. They also raise concerns about the maturity of 16 and 17-year-olds to make informed decisions in elections.
About This Analysis
This summary was generated using AI from the bill's official text and metadata. Data sourced from LegiScan and the Massachusetts General Court. Conflict-of-interest analysis for this bill is coming soon.
What does MA H4223 do?
The bill allows 16 and 17-year-olds in Arlington, Massachusetts, to vote in local elections. These young residents can apply to a special list of voters kept by the town clerk. Once they turn 18, they must register as regular voters under state law. The bill does not allow them to vote in state or federal elections.
What is the status of MA H4223?
MA H4223 is currently “Introduced” in the Massachusetts legislature.
Who sponsored MA H4223?
Sean Garballey (D) sponsored MA H4223.
