FederalBill S-222Defeated
Bill S-222: Vote 16 Act
Sponsor: Sen. Marilou McPhedranIntroduced May 29, 2025Last checked August 28, 2026
Read the official text on parl.caOfficial version — LEGISinfo, Parliament of Canada
What this bill does
This bill lowers the federal voting age in Canada from 18 to 16, extending the right to vote in federal elections and referendums to Canadian citizens aged 16 and 17, and correspondingly adjusts the definition of 'future elector' to cover citizens aged 14 and 15.
Plain-language summary by Legisail.
Business impact
This bill has minimal direct impact on most businesses. However, political parties and organizations involved in political fundraising and campaign activities would need to update their processes, as 16- and 17-year-olds would now be eligible voters and subject to different reporting rules at regulated fundraising events. Businesses that provide election-related services — such as voter outreach, polling technology, or political advertising — may see an expanded market. The bill does not impose new obligations on employers or businesses based on size, industry, or province.
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Where this bill is
First ReadingMay 29, 2025
DefeatedApril 22, 2026
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