SoVote

Decentralized Democracy

House Bill

Bill C-227

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
February 03, 2022
An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act (voting age)
  • Bill C-227 aims to lower the federal voting age in Canada from 18 to 16 years old. The proposed amendments to the Canada Elections Act would redefine the "future elector" as a Canadian citizen who is 14 years of age or older but under 16 years of age. It also states that every person who is a Canadian citizen and is 16 years of age or older on polling day is qualified as an elector. The bill would remove the requirement for electors to be 16 or older for certain provisions, such as being nominated as a candidate or serving as an election officer. The purpose of this bill is to expand the voting rights of young Canadians by allowing them to participate in the electoral process at an earlier age.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman argument: Lowering the federal voting age from 18 to 16 has several valid justifications. First, it recognizes that 16-year-olds are affected by government policies and decisions and should have a say in determining their future. Many 16-year-olds work, pay taxes, and contribute to society, so it is only fair that they have a voice in selecting their representatives. Second, lowering the voting age can cultivate civic engagement and responsibility at an earlier age. By allowing 16-year-olds to vote, we can encourage their participation in democracy and teach them about the importance of informed voting and political participation. Third, lowering the voting age could lead to more inclusive and representative politics. Young people have unique perspectives and experiences that deserve representation in decision-making processes. By allowing 16-year-olds to vote, we can ensure that their voices are heard and taken into account wh

SteelmanSpren Against

  • One possible steelman argument opposing lowering the federal voting age from 18 to 16 is that 16-year-olds may not possess the same level of maturity and life experience as adults. Making important decisions such as voting requires a certain level of understanding, critical thinking, and judgement, which may not be fully developed in younger individuals. Lowering the voting age to 16 could potentially lead to uninformed decisions and the influence of peer pressure or other external influences on the voting choices of young people. Additionally, 16-year-olds are still in the process of completing their education and may not have the necessary knowledge and understanding of political issues and policies to make informed choices. They may also be more susceptible to manipulation and misinformation. It is important to ensure that the voting age corresponds to the level of maturity and understanding necessary to make informed decisions that
House First Reading
  • Feb. 3, 2022, 10 a.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read