Sente Congratulates Students on Bill Signing

VERNON HILLS, IL –State Rep. Carol Sente, D-Vernon Hills, joined Adlai E. Stevenson High School students on Wednesday, July 3, to view House Bill 226 become law, granting 17-year-olds the right to vote in primary elections, if they will be 18 by the general election.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Stevenson High School students over the past few months as we transformed their idea into law,” Sente said. “With their energy, and the enthusiasm of their teacher, Andy Conneen, we were able to navigate constitutional issues, gather widespread support, and join about 20 other states in allowing those who will be 18 by the general election to vote in primary elections – offering the opportunity for full participation in the election cycle.”

HB 226 passed both chambers with overwhelming bipartisan support. In early May, students joined Sente at the Capitol to lobby support for the initiative from her colleagues and legislative leaders. 

“I applaud these students for getting actively involved in transforming their initiative into a reality. What could bring a civics lesson more to life than participating in steps of the actual legislative process,” Sente said. “They are great role models, and I am hopeful that by giving young adults greater influence in the political process, that they will form a habit of voting from an early age and continue contributing towards making Illinois a better place.”

To hear feedback on this law, discuss her other advocacy for youth, and collaborate on additional ideas for legislation, Sente will be hosting a Teen Advisory Committee on July 31.

For more information, or for details on Sente’s Teen Advisory Committee, please contact her full-time constituent service office at (847) 478-9909 or email RepSente@gmail.com.