Los Angeles – On Monday, the LA City Council voted unanimously in favor of an Alarcón motion to support Assemblymember Price’s AB 1819.   The bill, which has passed Appropriations, will enable 16-year-olds to pre-register as voters in all 58 California counties.  Students who have reached their 16th birthday would fill out their voter registration card and the data would be entered into the voter database, but coded with the student’s birth date.  As each pre-registrant turns 18, the database would automatically activate their voter registration.    

"AB 1819 is a bill that will help engage California youth in our government and ultimately strengthen the election process,” said Price.  “I am deeply honored that Councilmember Alarcón and the LA City Council share my desire to get this historic legislation passed and I am grateful that the City Council is in support of AB 1819." 

LA City Councilman Alarcón, a former California Assemblymember, spoke of the power of youth participation in the democratic process.    “This year we have seen increased turnout out of young voters in every state across the nation and AB 1819 will help continue the momentum and enthusiasm for civic participation here in California,” said Councilmember Alarcón.    City Council President, Garcetti and Councilman Rosendahl both offered passionate statements in support of AB 1819 before the Council vote.

“One need only look at the overwhelming influence that young voters have had on the Presidential Primaries to understand the power of youth in democracy,” said Assemblymember Price.   “Studies show us that early involvement leads to lifelong participation.”

Last year, Assemblymember Price initiated voter education outreach to high schools in his District with an overwhelming response from students.   Seven other states, Hawaii, Connecticut, Iowa, Florida, Maine, Wisconsin, Missouri, and Texas already allow pre-registration.