SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — State Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-West Chicago, helped pass a bill encouraging and expanding access to youth civic engagement. It requires high schools to provide voter registration opportunities and information and is inspired by the life and legacy of Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.

“The future of our democracy depends on the voice of our young voters, that’s why it’s important that schools provide the opportunity for them to register to vote,” said Hirschauer. “Empowering young voters to become essential members of their communities by providing them with information on how they can register and why it matters is crucial to send them towards the path of adulthood.”

House Bill 4339, also known as the Jesse Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Act, ensures that all public high schools offer students of voting age the opportunity to register to vote. This opportunity will take place during the school day in an accessible and nonpartisan environment. Registering to vote can be complicated, especially for first-time voters. This bill will give high schoolers a safe space to learn, ask questions, and take steps towards civic engagement.

Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. famously said, “On that graduation day or night, we must put a diploma in one hand symbolizing knowledge and wisdom, and put a voter registration card in that other hand symbolizing power and responsibility.” This bill honors Rev. Jackson, Sr. and his dedication to equal rights and public service.

“Every U.S. citizen has the fundamental right to vote and participate in our democracy. Voters have the power and responsibility to vote for someone who represents their morals, values, and community needs. That’s why it is important for young voters to be taught, and given, those fundamentals before graduating from high school,” said Hirschauer.

House Bill 4339 passed the House and now heads to the Senate for consideration.