HI HR186

Requests the Department of Education, in cooperation with the Office of Elections, to create and implement a Voter Pre-Registration and Education Program for public high school students in Hawaii.

Program must include information on and assistance with the pre-registration process, education on the voting process, and any other components deemed necessary by the Department.

Department is requested to consult with the County Clerk of Hawaii in creating the Program and avoid duplicating the County's existing Young Voter Registration Program in Hawaii County public schools.

Department of Education must submit reports to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2014 and 2015 Regular Sessions detailing the Program's creation and implementation.

Resolution cites Hawaii's historically low voter turnout (less than 43% in 2012 primary, less than 62% in 2012 general) and research showing pre-registration programs have positive long-term effects on youth voting propensity.