SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mattie Hunter voted to override a measure that could increase youth participation in state elections. Senate Bill 250 creates an automatic voter registration for Illinoisans.

Under current law, Illinois has an opt-in voter registration system where the default status is unregistered. The burden is with individual voters to register. Earlier this session, the governor vetoed the legislation, causing the bill to return this fall.

"I’m hopeful the legislation’s new revisions will gain the governor’s support and become law. Increasing youth voter participation will allow a necessary voice in our political system,” said State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago), a career advocate for youth rights. “Making it easier for residents to vote, especially young people, is important because our youth will eventually be the leaders of this state and country.”

Senate Bill 250 will streamline the voter registration in a cost-effective and easy manner, giving unregistered voters who wish to opt out the opportunity to do so.