SoVote

Decentralized Democracy

House Bill

Bill C-210

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
September 28, 2022
Right to Vote at 16 Act
  • This bill, called the Right to Vote at 16 Act, aims to amend the Canada Elections Act to lower the federal voting age in Canada from 18 to 16 years of age. If passed, this would allow Canadian citizens who are 16 years old or older to vote in federal elections. The bill also includes provisions for the timing of its implementation.
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  • RA
  • Yea (77)
  • Nay (245)
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman Argument: Lowering the voting age to 16 promotes youth activism and political engagement, ensuring that young people have a voice in shaping the future of their country. By allowing 16-year-olds to vote, we acknowledge that they have the cognitive abilities to make informed decisions and have a stake in the policies that impact their lives. Lowering the voting age can also lead to increased awareness and education about politics and government among young people, as they will have a direct role in the democratic process. Additionally, 16-year-olds already face certain legal obligations and responsibilities, such as paying taxes and facing criminal charges, so it is only fair that they have the right to vote and have a say in the decisions that affect them. Ultimately, lowering the voting age to 16 can foster a more inclusive and representative democracy by ensuring that the perspectives and concerns of young people are acknowle

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman Argument: While there may be arguments in favor of lowering the voting age to 16, there are several valid arguments opposing this change. Firstly, 16-year-olds may not have the necessary maturity and life experience to make informed decisions about political matters. The decision to vote should be reserved for individuals who have reached a certain level of cognitive development and can understand the implications of their choices. Moreover, at 16, individuals are typically still in high school and may be heavily influenced by their parents, teachers, or peers. This raises concerns about potential manipulation or coercion in the voting process. Young voters may be more susceptible to external influences and may not have the ability to critically analyze political information. Additionally, the lowering of the voting age could shift the focus of political campaigns and policies to cater more to the interests of young peopl

House Motion No. 179

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
Sept. 28, 2022, 3:30 p.m.
2nd reading of Bill C-210, An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act (voting age)
  • Bill C-210
  • Latest: First reading in the House of Commons
House First Reading
  • Sept. 28, 2022, 2 p.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read