Herter Asks Reduction In Voting Age to 18

Governor Christian A. Herter '15 yesterday recommended reducing the minimum voting age in the Commonwealth from 21 to 18 years in his annual address to both branches of the Massachusetts Legislature.

"We have placed upon these young people many responsibilities," Herter said. "It is no less important that they have a voice in our affairs."

Herter is believed to be the first governor to publicly advocate such a change. To reduce the voting age in Massachusetts would require an amendment to the State Constitution, a process which would take at least five years.

UMass Funds Sought

In a section of his speech devoted to education, Herter recommended an increase in funds for the University of Massachusetts because of an increase in students qualified for college.

"The demand for higher education for qualified applicants has increased tremendously," he said.