Stuart-Backed Bill Passes, Empowering Young Voters, Inspired by Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — State Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, helped pass a bill encouraging and expanding access to youth civic engagement by requiring high schools to provide voter registration opportunities and information, inspired by the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.

“As an educator, I saw first-hand what formative times the high school years are for young people,” said Stuart. “Registering to vote at a young age, embracing your role as a concerned citizen with a voice, is so crucial to empowering our next generations of leaders.”

House Bill 4339, establishing the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Act, ensures that all public high schools offer students of voting age the opportunity to register to vote. Registering to vote can be complicated, especially for first-time voters. This bill will give high schoolers a safe space to learn, ask questions, and take steps towards civic engagement.

This bill honors Rev. Jackson, Sr. and his dedication to equal rights and public service, who passed away earlier this year after a storied career marching alongside Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., developing the Rainbow Coalition based in Chicago, and so much more.

“Studies have shown that kids who get involved in civic engagement early, like going with their parents to vote or going to community events, are more likely to engage with their community as adults,” said Stuart. “Rev. Jesse Jackson fought for voting access right here in Illinois, and I’m proud to play a part in continuing his legacy.”

House Bill 4339 was passed unanimously by Democrats, with 24 Republicans voting against and nine not voting, and now heads to the Senate for consideration.