This article is written by Rachel Knapp and is published by KRQE:

Should people under 18 years-old be allowed to vote? That’s a question being considered at the Roundhouse. Teens and even kids participate in public comment at the legislature, but this proposal would let 17 year-olds participate in state and local elections.

 “I do feel that there is an opportunity that we have here as legislators that obviously have young folks who want to get involved in the process,” said Sen. Carrie Hamblen (D- Las Cruces). Right now in New Mexico, 17 year-olds can vote in the primaries just as long as they’re 18 years-old by the general election.

Senate Bill 412 would let 17 year-olds vote in any state elections, which include school board elections, mayoral elections, county and city elections, just to name a few. However, they would not be able to vote in federal elections, which are presidential and congressional elections. The sponsor said this is a way for younger people to have a say in their communities.

Read the full article here.