IL State Rep. Du Buclet’s Advances Legislation to Expand Youth Civic Engagement in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — State Rep. Kimberly Neely Du Buclet, D-Chicago, is advancing legislation that strengthens civic participation among young people by ensuring Illinois high schools provide eligible students with the opportunity to register to vote in a trusted, nonpartisan academic setting.

“For too long, voter participation has been treated as something young people are expected to figure out on their own after they leave school. If we are serious about building a stronger, more inclusive democracy, we must start earlier,” said Du Buclet. “Civic engagement should be part of the transition to adulthood, and that is exactly what this bill does.”

House Bill 4339, also known as the Jesse Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Act, passed the House Ethics and Elections Committee with unanimous support. The legislation ensures that all public high schools offer students of voting age the opportunity to register during the school day in a safe, accessible, and nonpartisan environment.

Too often, voter registration efforts are tied to political campaigns or outside organizations that may influence how someone votes. This bill removes that pressure and ensures young people have a first-time voter experience rooted in trust, education, and independence.

“This legislation is deeply inspired by the vision of Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., who said that graduation should mark a young person’s full entry into civic life—leaving with a diploma in one hand and a voter registration card in the other. We are not telling anyone who to vote for. We are making sure they understand their voice matters and that they have a place in our democracy,” said Du Buclet.

“At a time when trust in our institutions is being tested, we have a responsibility to meet young people where they are and equip them with the tools to participate. This bill is about building lifelong civic habits, strengthening our communities, and ensuring that every young Illinoisan understands both the power of their voice and the responsibility that comes with it.”

House Bill 4339 now heads to the House floor, where Du Buclet looks forward to continuing to work with her colleagues in House leadership, including Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, to move this legislation forward and ensure the next generation is empowered, informed, and engaged.