Illinois Could Lower Voting Age

Illinois 17-year-olds would be able to vote in primary elections in some cases under legislation headed to Gov. Pat Quinn.

The measure would allow voters as young as 17 to cast ballots in primaries if they will be 18 by the time of the general election.

The Senate approved the bill 43-9. Sens. Dale Righter (R-Mattoon) and Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) voted against it.

Sen. Terry Link (D-Waukegan) said lowering the voting age would encourage greater participation in the electoral process.

Nineteen other states allow 17-year-olds to vote.