Legal Question in Constitutional Law in Iowa

26th Amend.; Juvenile voting rights

The 26th Amendment guarantees voting rights for 18-year-olds, but says nothing of juveniles. What does this omission mean? Does this mean a) juveniles can't vote or b) state and local gov'ts may allow juveniles the vote, but the federal gov't won't guarantee it?

Is the actual minimum voting age determined by state or by local laws? Does it make a difference what gov't level is being voted for? Are there any localities that have granted juvenile suffrage?


Asked on 2/25/03, 7:56 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Re: 26th Amend.; Juvenile voting rights

The 26th Amendment applies to state and local elections and requires that anyone 18 or older not be disqualified due to their age (they can be disqualified for other reasons, of course). The Amendment does not bar states from setting lower minimum ages, but to my knowledge no state has chosen to do so.

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Answered on 2/25/03, 8:08 pm


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