Temperance and Good Citizenship Day

#FutureVoter Quick Links

Contact Information

Social Studies

Andrew Miller

Associate Director, Content - Social Studies
360-870-0066

Voting is a critical function of our democracy. In 2018, the Washington State Legislature created the Future Voter program in an effort to increase access to voter registration and recognize the importance of lifelong civic participation. Because of this work, 16-year olds will automatically be registered to vote when they turn 18.

The law requires schools to provide high school seniors the opportunity to register to vote, during social studies instructional time, on Temperance and Good Citizenship Day held on January 16. In addition to #FutureVoter, new legislation: RCW 29A.08.170 (effective January 1, 2022), provides 17-year-olds who will be 18 by the November General Election the opportunity to vote in the August Primary.

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August Primary to November General. A 17 year-old who will be 18 by the November General Election can vote in the August Primary.
 

Recent data shows a significant increase in youth voter pre-registration and registration since the implementation of Future Voter programs. To continue to support this effort, the Office of the Secretary of State (SOS) and OSPI collaborated to provide voter registration materials, lesson plans, and digital media to encourage future voters to sign up.

Resources and Materials

It is important to educate #FutureVoters about the issues, processes, and impacts of voting in elections. The following resources include links to lesson plans, videos, games, and printable activities to assist teachers K—12 to promote civic participation and voting.