SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) — Legislation backed by Carol Ammons aimed at expanding youth civic engagement has passed the Illinois House and now heads to the Senate.

House Bill 4339, known as the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Act, would require public high schools to provide eligible students with opportunities to register to vote and access information about the process.

The measure is inspired by the legacy of Jesse Jackson Sr., a longtime civil rights advocate known for his work in voting rights and public service.

“Women and people of color have fought for the right to vote in our country for over a century,” Ammons said. “It’s our job to honor those who came before us, demanding civil and voting rights, and continue to expand on their hard work and sacrifice.”

Supporters say the bill is designed to make the registration process more accessible for first-time voters by providing a familiar, supportive environment within schools.

“Rev. Jackson called me the Little Girl from Champaign, and I was honored to learn from him,” Ammons said. “He would agree that the earlier civic engagement begins, the longer people will be involved in their community.”

The bill passed with unanimous Democratic support, with some Republican opposition, and now awaits consideration in the Senate.