California’s Preregistration Rate Is Up, But We Still Have A Long Way To Go
A recent report issued by the California Secretary of State shows a significant statewide increase in the number of 16- and 17-year-olds preregistered to vote.
Between October 22, 2018 and October 1, 2019, most of California’s 20 largest counties experienced increases in preregistration rates. Eight of these counties saw increases of more than 20% during this period: Los Angeles (24%), Orange (22%), Sacramento (36%), San Bernardino (42%), San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma, and Tulare. San Bernardino County, with a year-over-year increase of 42%, reported the largest positive change in preregistration rates among large counties.
These increases are especially notable because California did not have a statewide election in 2019, which could have propelled increases in voter registration. The increases are also notable because only 16- and 17-year-olds are classified as preregistered voters. Young people are constantly aging out of the preregistration category as they turn 18, and the 16-year-olds who enter the category are not yet registered.
A few of the state’s largest 20 counties experienced declines from the year prior, including Fresno, Riverside, San Joaquin, Santa Barbara, and Ventura.
California’s preregistration rate as a whole has increased from 13% in October 2018 to 15% today. However, the fact that these percentages have stayed under 20% shows that much more work is needed.
For example, state agencies should review why the state’s automatic voter registration law is not having a greater effect on preregistration. Under this law, those eligible are automatically registered to vote at the same time that they engage in DMV transactions, unless they expressly opt out. Many young people obtain their learner’s permits before they turn 16, and may miss the chance to preregister.
The effective implementation of preregistration laws should be a higher priority for officials from both political parties. Governor Newsom recently vetoed legislation that would have required public high schools to provide meaningful preregistration opportunities for their students.
Despite the implementation challenges, what we can say is that awareness of preregistration is spreading. Increasing numbers of young people are starting to see the potential of these laws. And if California is a bellwether, we predict significant increases nationwide in youth voter registration leading into 2020.
