Proposition G

Youth Voting in Local San Francisco Elections

Would amend the Charter of the City and County of San Francisco to authorize youths aged 16 and 17 to vote in municipal elections. Proposition G requires a simple majority (50% + 1) to pass.

Fiscal Impact: Would have minimal impact on the cost of government.

Next San Francisco County Measure: Proposition H

See Endorsements for Proposition G

Pro:

Proponents of Proposition G argue that allowing young people to vote at a time when they are engaged with their local communities will establish a life-long habit of voting and increase overall voter turnout. They argue that many 16- and 17-year-olds have jobs and pay taxes. They should have the right to vote.

A YES vote on this measure means: The San Francisco Charter would be amended to allow San Francisco residents to vote for local candidates and local ballot measures if they are U.S. citizens, at least 16 years old and registered to vote.

Con:

Opponents of Proposition G argue that 16- and 17-year-olds lack the maturity and experiences necessary to vote and 16- and 17-year-olds are not adults under the law.

A NO vote on this measure means: The San Francisco Charter would not be amended to allow San Francisco residents to vote for local candidates and local ballot measures if they are U.S. citizens, at least 16 years old and registered to vote.

Background

Article XVII of the San Francisco charter defines “voter” as an elector who is registered to vote under state law. Applicable state law provides that U.S. citizens and residents of the state who are at least 18 years of age at the time of the next election are eligible to register and vote. In 2016, the Board of Supervisors submitted a Charter amendment to the voters that would have authorized 16- and 17-year- olds to vote in municipal elections. The measure failed to obtain the voters’ approval. In 2020, Board of Supervisors President Norman Yee introduced Proposition G on behalf of the City’s Youth Commission, which advises City Supervisors and the Mayor on policies and laws impacting young people.

Proposition G Proposal

Proposition G would allow San Francisco residents to vote on local candidates and local ballot measures if they are U.S. citizens, at least 16 years old and registered to vote. Local candidates include candidates for City offices, the Board of Education and the Community College Board of Trustees. Proposition G does not allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote for state candidates, state ballot measures or federal candidates.

Proposition G could be expected to increase the number of registered voters for municipal elections by up to approximately 1.5% if 16 and 17 year-olds register to vote at the same rate as the general population.

Source: Legislative Digest and Controller Analysis of Proposition G

Official Resources

City and County of San Francisco Department of Elections

Official San Francisco Voter Guide for November 3, 2020

Nonpartisan Analysis

San Francisco and California November 2020 Voter Guide. SPUR.