Bill S-209 explained in plain English
An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and the Regulation Adapting the Canada Elections Act for the Purposes of a Referendum (voting age)
Federal Parliament bill summary, status, timeline, sponsor, votes, and official sources.
At a glance
Official Parliament of Canada snapshot for 43rd Parliament, 2nd Session. MP vote breakdowns appear when the House of Commons publishes a recorded division export for that bill. Senate and House stage details include official debate/sitting links when LEGISinfo publishes them.
Our plain-language take, written for civic education.
Source: By PoliticalData.ca
This bill would lower the voting age in federal elections and referendums from 18 years to 16 years.
Bill S-209 proposes to change the voting age in Canadian federal elections and referendums from 18 years old to 16 years old. The bill modifies the Canada Elections Act and the Regulation Adapting the Canada Elections Act for the Purposes of a Referendum. The main changes are: - A person who is 16 years of age or older (instead of 18) on polling day would be qualified to vote in federal elections and referendums. - The definition of "future elector" (a person who is eligible to vote soon) would be changed from anyone 14 or 15 years old to only those 14 or 15 years old. - References throughout the elections law that currently mention 18 years of age would be updated to 16 years of age, including rules about who can vote and requirements for voting declarations. - A rule allowing election officers to be as young as 16 (previously needing to be under 18 but at least 16) would be removed, as it would no longer be necessary. - The bill specifies that people under 16 years of age attending fundraising events would not be required to be named in fundraising reports. If passed, the bill would come into force six months after it receives royal assent (final approval from Parliament), unless the Chief Electoral Officer publishes a notice in the Canada Gazette saying the necessary preparations are complete, in which case it could come into force earlier.
- Lowers the minimum voting age in federal elections from 18 years to 16 years
- Lowers the minimum voting age in federal referendums from 18 years to 16 years
- Updates the definition of 'future elector' to reflect the new voting age framework
- Updates prohibitions on voting to specify that persons must be 16 or older (instead of 18 or older) on polling day
- Removes a rule about election officers being under 18 but at least 16 years old, since that age group would now be eligible voters
- Changes requirements for naming attendees at regulated fundraising events to exclude persons under 16 (instead of under 18)
- Updates voter identity declaration requirements to reflect that electors must be 16 or older on polling day
- Canadian citizens aged 16 and 17 who would become eligible to vote in federal elections for the first time
- Canadian citizens aged 16 and 17 who would become eligible to vote in federal referendums for the first time
- The Chief Electoral Officer and Elections Canada, who would need to implement and prepare for the changes
- Election officers and election administration staff who would apply the new voting age rules
- Registered political parties, whose fundraising event reporting would change to exclude persons under 16
- Canadian citizens aged 16 or older would gain the right to vote in federal elections
- Canadian citizens aged 16 or older would gain the right to vote in federal referendums
- Election officers and polling officials would be required to apply the new 16-year voting age in all voting rules and procedures
- Registered political parties would be required to exclude persons under 16 from fundraising event reports instead of excluding persons under 18
- The bill would come into force six months after it receives royal assent, unless the Chief Electoral Officer publishes a notice in the Canada Gazette indicating that necessary preparations are complete, in which case it could come into force earlier
- The bill text does not specify whether Elections Canada has completed the necessary preparations for implementation, so the exact date of coming into force is not fixed
- The bill is currently at the committee stage in the Senate and has not yet been approved by Parliament, so it may not become law
- The bill text does not explain the rationale for lowering the voting age or discuss any impacts on voter registration systems or election procedures
Multiple sections of this act are modified to change the voting age from 18 to 16 years
Source: Sections 1-6
The regulation is updated to allow 16-year-olds to vote in federal referendums
Source: Section 7
The rule allowing election officers to be 16 or older but under 18 is removed
Source: Section 3
Generated using AI from official bill text. Not legal advice. It is written by PoliticalData.ca for civic education, automatically checked and spot-reviewed before publishing.
Official textParliamentary Process
Bill S-209, an Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and related regulations regarding the voting age, completed its first reading in the Senate and was referred to committee.
Bill S-209, concerning the voting age, received its first reading in the Senate on September 30, 2020. It was later referred to a Senate committee on June 22, 2021. The bill has since undergone second reading and related speeches.
During a Senate sitting on September 30, 2020, Bill S-209, concerning amendments to the Canada Elections Act and a related regulation regarding the voting age, received its first reading.
This record details the first reading of Bill S-209 in the Senate on September 30, 2020. The first reading is a procedural step where a bill is formally introduced. The artifact includes various other Senate proceedings from that day, such as Senators' Statements on notable individuals and events, Routine Proceedings where several other bills were introduced and motions were presented, and a Question Period addressing topics like COVID-19 testing, international relations, and Indigenous issues. Bill S-209 itself was introduced by Senator Marilou McPhedran.
Bill S-209, concerning the voting age, has completed second reading in the Senate and has been sent to a committee for further review.
This record shows the procedural history of Bill S-209 in the Senate. The bill, which aims to amend the Canada Elections Act regarding the voting age, completed its second reading stage. Following this, it was referred to a Senate committee for further consideration. The provided text lists the dates when major speeches were made during the second reading debates and notes the sponsor of the bill, as well as senators who gave response speeches. It also lists similar bills that have been introduced in Parliament.
During a Senate sitting on November 5, 2020, the second reading debate for Bill S-209, proposing to lower the voting age to 16, was initiated and subsequently adjourned.
On November 5, 2020, the Senate of Canada's sitting included routine proceedings, question period, and debates on several bills. Notably, Bill S-209, concerning lowering the voting age to 16, had its second reading debate initiated by Senator Marilou McPhedran. The debate was adjourned after her speech, meaning the bill will be discussed further at a later date. Other proceedings included debates on Bills S-2, S-210, S-213, S-216, and S-1001, as well as various motions.
Senator McPhedran spoke at second reading for Bill S-209, proposing to lower the federal voting age to 16, arguing that young Canadians are mature and informed enough to participate in democracy.
On November 5, 2020, during the Senate's second reading debate on Bill S-209, Senator Marilou McPhedran introduced the bill, which proposes to lower the federal voting age from 18 to 16. She argued that 16- and 17-year-olds are mature and informed enough to vote, citing examples of other responsibilities they already hold, such as driving and consenting to medical treatments. She also highlighted research suggesting that allowing voting at 16 can lead to lifelong voting habits and increase overall voter turnout. The debate was adjourned after Senator McPhedran's speech, with subsequent interventions from Senators Housakos, Martin, and Mercer exploring various aspects of the bill, including the age threshold, the role of political parties, and the potential impact on democratic engagement. Senator Jaffer also spoke in support of the bill, drawing on her experience with youth advocacy.
Senator McPhedran spoke at second reading for Bill S-209, proposing to lower the federal voting age to 16, arguing that young Canadians are mature and informed enough to participate in democracy.
On November 5, 2020, during the Senate's second reading debate on Bill S-209, Senator Marilou McPhedran introduced the bill, which proposes to lower the federal voting age from 18 to 16. She argued that 16- and 17-year-olds are mature and informed enough to vote, citing examples of other responsibilities they already hold, such as driving and consenting to medical treatments. She also highlighted research suggesting that allowing voting at 16 can lead to lifelong voting habits and increase overall voter turnout. The debate was adjourned after Senator McPhedran's speech, with subsequent interventions from Senators Housakos, Martin, and Mercer exploring various aspects of the bill, including the age threshold, the role of political parties, and the potential impact on democratic engagement. Senator Jaffer also spoke in support of the bill, drawing on her experience with youth advocacy.
During the Senate's second reading debate on Bill S-209 to lower the voting age, senators discussed the historical expansion of suffrage, arguments for and against enfranchising 16- and 17-year-olds, and the role of civic education, while other Senate business proceeded.
The Senate continued its second reading debate on Bill S-209, an Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and related regulations to change the voting age. Senators discussed the historical evolution of voting rights in Canada and presented arguments for and against lowering the voting age to 16. They also discussed the importance of civic education and the potential impact on youth political engagement. While the debate continued, the bill itself did not pass at this stage. The sitting also included tributes, the tabling of committee reports, adoption of motions, and a question period covering various government topics. Finally, the Senate considered other bills and motions, with debate adjourned on several, indicating further discussion is planned.
During the second reading debate of Bill S-209, senators discussed lowering the voting age to 16, with supporters arguing it would enhance democracy and reduce apathy, citing international examples and addressing concerns about youth maturity and influence.
On December 3, 2020, the Senate held the second reading debate for Bill S-209, An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and the Regulation Adapting the Canada Elections Act for the Purposes of a Referendum (voting age). Senator Julie Miville-Dechêne spoke in support of the bill, arguing that lowering the voting age to 16 would create a more representative democracy and could reduce political apathy among young people. She addressed common arguments against lowering the age, such as concerns about maturity and influence, by referencing examples from other countries and highlighting that 16-year-olds already have significant responsibilities. Senator Ratna Omidvar also spoke in support, commending Senator McPhedran's work and addressing objections by citing evidence from Austria and other jurisdictions where the voting age has been lowered. She argued that young people are capable of making informed choices and that lowering the voting age could foster lifelong civic engagement. Senator Mary Jane McCallum also expressed support, framing the bill as a way to support youth self-determination and their involvement in politics, particularly for Indigenous youth. She acknowledged initial concerns about youth maturity but concluded that with proper supports and education, youth are capable of making reasonable decisions and are invested in their country's future.
During the second reading debate of Bill S-209, senators discussed lowering the voting age to 16, with supporters arguing it would enhance democracy and reduce apathy, citing international examples and addressing concerns about youth maturity and influence.
On December 3, 2020, the Senate held the second reading debate for Bill S-209, An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and the Regulation Adapting the Canada Elections Act for the Purposes of a Referendum (voting age). Senator Julie Miville-Dechêne spoke in support of the bill, arguing that lowering the voting age to 16 would create a more representative democracy and could reduce political apathy among young people. She addressed common arguments against lowering the age, such as concerns about maturity and influence, by referencing examples from other countries and highlighting that 16-year-olds already have significant responsibilities. Senator Ratna Omidvar also spoke in support, commending Senator McPhedran's work and addressing objections by citing evidence from Austria and other jurisdictions where the voting age has been lowered. She argued that young people are capable of making informed choices and that lowering the voting age could foster lifelong civic engagement. Senator Mary Jane McCallum also expressed support, framing the bill as a way to support youth self-determination and their involvement in politics, particularly for Indigenous youth. She acknowledged initial concerns about youth maturity but concluded that with proper supports and education, youth are capable of making reasonable decisions and are invested in their country's future.
In the Senate on December 8, 2020, the second reading debate continued on Bill S-209, concerning lowering the voting age to 16, with senators supporting the initiative.
During this Senate sitting on December 8, 2020, the main procedural activity related to Bill S-209 was the continuation of the debate at second reading. The debate focused on the proposal to lower the voting age to 16. Senators expressed support for the bill, highlighting arguments such as the responsibilities already held by young people, their participation in politics, and positive international examples. The debate also touched upon related topics like youth engagement, climate change, and the broader implications of voting rights. No vote occurred on the bill during this sitting, as the debate was adjourned.
The Senate sat on March 16, 2021, hearing senators' statements, considering various routine proceedings, engaging in question period, and debating several bills at different stages, including significant discussions on medical assistance in dying (Bill C-7), trade agreements, employment insurance, and lowering the voting age.
This artifact is a record of the Senate sitting on March 16, 2021. It includes "Senators' Statements" where members paid tribute to individuals, "Routine Proceedings" which involved the presentation of committee reports and first readings of bills, "Question Period" where senators asked questions of the Government Representative on various topics, and "Orders of the Day" which outlined the business before the Senate, including debates on bills. Notably, there was a "Debate Continued" regarding Bill C-7 concerning medical assistance in dying, "Second Reading" debates on Bill C-18 (Canada-UK Trade Continuity Agreement), Bill C-24 (EI and Recovery Benefits Act), and Bill S-209 (voting age). There was also a "Second Reading—Debate Continued" for Bill S-209 and a "Second Reading—Debate Continued" for Bill S-213 (Women and Gender Equality Act). Several other bills were introduced and referred to committee, and a motion for an address in reply to the Speech from the Throne was debated.
The Senate sitting on June 1, 2021, began with profound tributes to the 215 children discovered at the Kamloops Indian Residential School, followed by continued debate on Bill S-209 to lower the voting age, which was adjourned after a proposed amendment and supporting arguments.
On Tuesday, June 1, 2021, the Senate of Canada convened for a sitting that included tributes to the 215 Indigenous children found buried at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School. Senators from various groups shared their grief, sorrow, and calls for reconciliation. Following these tributes, the Senate moved through Routine Proceedings, Question Period, and Orders of the Day. Notably, under Orders of the Day, the second reading debate for Bill S-209, An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and the Regulation Adapting the Canada Elections Act for the Purposes of a Referendum (voting age), was continued. Senator David M. Wells spoke against the bill, proposing an amendment that would send the bill back to the House of Commons, arguing that changes to voting age should originate in the elected chamber. Senator Pat Duncan spoke in support of the bill's principle, advocating for committee study rather than the proposed amendment. The debate on Bill S-209 was adjourned. Other legislative matters and inquiries were also addressed during the sitting, including debates on Bill S-4 (Parliament of Canada Act), Bill S-229 (health-centred approach to substance use), Bill S-230 (Citizenship Act), Bill S-232 (Governor General's Act), and various motions concerning human rights, official languages, and long-term care.
During the Senate sitting on June 8, 2021, extensive tributes were made following a tragedy in London, Ontario, and various bills concerning citizenship, elections, environmental protection, health frameworks, and human rights were debated or advanced procedurally, alongside committee business.
On June 8, 2021, the Senate convened for its sitting. The majority of the sitting was dedicated to tributes regarding the tragic events in London, Ontario, and discussions on various other topics including Senator Klyne's appointment to a committee, Bill C-15 consultations, the telecommunications industry, beneficial ownership registries, seniors' rights, military justice, cruise ship tourism, human rights in Myanmar, and the appointment of external members to the Audit and Oversight Committee. The Senate also began second reading debate on Bill S-209, concerning the voting age, and debated Bill C-8, to amend the Citizenship Act, Bill C-210, to amend the Canada Revenue Agency Act (organ and tissue donors), Bill S-202, to amend the Assisted Human Reproduction Act, Bill S-227, respecting a National Ribbon Skirt Day, Bill S-229, respecting the decriminalization of illegal substances, Bill C-204, to amend the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, and Bill C-237, to establish a national framework for diabetes. Procedural matters, including the adoption of committee reports and deferral of votes, were also addressed.
In the Senate on June 9, 2021, a debate on Bill S-209 (voting age) concluded with the rejection of a procedural amendment, and tributes were paid to retiring Senator Jim Munson.
During this Senate sitting on June 9, 2021, the Senate debated Bill S-209, which proposes to lower the voting age. The debate focused on the procedural question of whether such a bill should originate in the Senate or the House of Commons. An amendment was moved suggesting the bill should start in the House of Commons. This amendment was ultimately negatived. The sitting also included tributes to Senator Jim Munson, who was retiring.
On June 21, 2021, the Senate conducted routine proceedings, question period, and debated several bills, with the debate on Bill S-209 (voting age) being adjourned.
This record details a sitting of the Senate on June 21, 2021, where various routine proceedings, question period exchanges, and debates on several bills took place. The sitting included statements on COVID-19, National Indigenous Peoples Day, tributes to veterans, and the anniversary of a tragedy. Several bills were read or debated, including appropriation bills, amendments to the Citizenship Act, Criminal Code, and Canada Labour Code, as well as bills concerning sports betting, recidivism, diabetes, and environmental protection related to plastic waste. The artifact specifically pertains to the debate at second reading for Bill S-209, An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act and the Regulation Adapting the Canada Elections Act for the Purposes of a Referendum (voting age). The debate for this bill was adjourned.
On June 22, 2021, the Senate sat, heard Senators' Statements, conducted Routine Proceedings and Question Period, and advanced Bill S-209 to the committee stage after its second reading.
This artifact is a record of the Senate sitting on June 22, 2021. It includes Senators' Statements on various topics, Routine Proceedings where reports were tabled and bills were introduced, and Question Period where Senators asked questions of the Government Representative. The Orders of the Day section shows that Bill S-209, concerning the voting age, was at its Second Reading stage and was referred to committee. Several other bills were also at various stages of debate and proceedings.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Consideration in committee yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Report stage yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Third reading yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for First reading yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Second reading yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Consideration in committee yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Report stage yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Third reading yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
Debate and sitting links point to official parliamentary sources when LEGISinfo publishes them. Any plain-language discussion summaries should be generated from those official texts and reviewed before public display.
Vote Summary
This bill is still active. We only show vote counts after the legislature publishes a recorded division.
No published representative vote breakdown
This bill is still moving through the process. When a recorded division is published, representative positions can be listed here.
Official sources
Status, sponsor, votes, and timeline on this page are drawn from these official legislative sources and public records. Each summary above is attributed to its own source.
How this data is sourced