TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey Senate has approved a groundbreaking bill sponsored by Senator Andrew Zwicker and Senator James Beach, enabling 17-year-old registered voters to participate in primary elections, provided they turn 18 before the subsequent general election. This legislative move aims to strengthen democracy by engaging younger voters.
The bill, a long-standing priority for Senator Zwicker and an important initiative for Senator Beach, reflects their commitment to voting and Election Day reforms. Senator Zwicker (D-Middlesex/Mercer/Somerset/Hunterdon) emphasized the importance of involving young people in the democratic process, stating, “One person, one vote” is at the heart of our democracy, and today we are giving young people the opportunity to make their voices heard.”
Currently, New Jersey law allows individuals who are at least 17 years old to register to vote if they will be 18 by the date of the general election. This new bill expands these rights, permitting these young registrants to vote in primary elections, assuming they turn 18 by the date of the next general election.
Senator Beach (D-Camden/Burlington) highlighted the significance of this change, noting that many teenagers eagerly await their first voting experience. This bill ensures that those turning 18 between June and November can have a say in selecting the candidates for the general election.
New Jersey joins eighteen other states and the District of Columbia in enacting this change. The bill previously cleared the full Assembly last May with a vote of 51-24, indicating strong legislative support for empowering young voters in the democratic process.