Congressman Al Green Introduces The Students Voicing Opinions in Today’s Elections (VOTE) Act of 2013

(Washington, DC)--On February 13, 2013, Congressman Al Green (TX-09) introduced the Students Voicing Opinions in Today’s Elections Act of 2013 (Students VOTE Act) in the House of Representatives. The bill will provide funds to school districts and/or local education agencies to impart voter registration information to high school seniors prior to graduation. The funds will be allocated by the Election Assistance Commission through a pilot program.

“Promoting greater civic engagement is vital to the creation of productive and conscientious citizens,” Congressman Al Green said. “Having young people play an active role in our civil society should be the goal of a nation committed to the noble credo of: ‘Government of the people, by the people, and for the people.””

Local education agencies must provide the Election Assistance Commission with a description of how they will provide voter registration information to high school seniors. An estimate of the cost associated with the initiatives, as well as other information may also be requested. The Students VOTE Act requires that participating local education agencies collaborate with local and state election officials to ensure accurate voter registration information is conveyed to the graduating seniors.

“A healthy democracy must provide its citizens, especially its youngest citizens, with the information needed to exercise their right to vote,” Congressman Al Green said. “The Students VOTE Act is another step in the direction of a more informed and active electorate, which will engender a more perfect Union.”