Proposition G - Youth Voting in Local Elections

Summary

A "YES" vote on Proposition G is a vote in favor of allowing 16 and 17 year olds to vote in local elections in San Francisco provided that they are U.S. citizens and register to vote.

A "NO" vote on Proposition G is a vote against allowing 16 and 17 year olds to vote in local elections in San Francisco provided that they are U.S. citizens and register to vote.

Arguments

"Voter turnout in the United States is far lower than other established democracies, and turnout is lowest among those aged 18-29. However, the research is clear -- the earlier someone casts their first vote, the more likely they are to become habitual, lifelong voters.", in support of Proposition G (Learn more)

"Our City's 16 and 17 year olds have demonstrated that we have the political skill and commitment to be engaged and informed voters. We work, pay taxes, and contribute to the City's economic vitality. We have also been leading local and national movements on human rights, social inequity, climate change, and criminal justice reform.", in support of Proposition G (Learn more)

"The Board of Education committed to supplementing high school curriculums to prepare young people to become educated citizens and voters when Proposition G passes. This curriculum will encourage critical thinking about the issues facing our communities and ensure that young people have the tools to be educated and informed voters.", in support of Proposition G (Learn more)

"We see increasing evidence of San Francisco's schools indoctrinating our youth, heavily politicizing so many aspects of our city's issues and our lives, that a child does not receive the best information to make a truly informed decision. Potential bias is everywhere.", in opposition to Proposition G (Learn more)

"Teens are children. They still need permission slips to go on a field trip. Many if not most of our city teens do not drive, don't work, and have not participated in owning or managing a business. They can't -- they aren't allowed to sign contracts. Moreover, they don't pay taxes, they don't have credit card accounts -- in other words, the worldly experiences of being an adult hasn't yet come to them. Image a teen voting on an issue which they themselves will not feel the implications of?", in opposition to Proposition G (Learn more)

Measure Details