HI HCR26

Urges the Hawaii Department of Education to provide students with information on voter preregistration for those 16 years of age and older, including eligibility guidance, registration procedures, and volunteer opportunities at voter service centers.

Cites U.S. Census Bureau data showing fewer than 40% of young adults (ages 18-24) participated in state elections from 2014 to 2024, with low-income youth twice as likely to miss registration deadlines.

Requests the Department make paper voter registration forms available and provide resources on accessible voting options for students with disabilities or visual/hearing impairments.

Calls for designating the last two full weeks of September each year as "high school voter registration and preregistration weeks" with activities to raise civic awareness and encourage eligible students to register.

Notes that public schools, including charter schools, are well-positioned for this effort since they already require democracy and civics courses for graduation.