Teens Now Have a Say in New York City’s Government

They're not old enough to vote in an election, but they can now have a vote on New York City-appointed boards that take influential stands on neighborhood issues.

The city is seeking scores of 16- and-17-year-olds to serve on community boards under a new state law that lets them hold up to two of each board's 50 seats. Applications will be taken early next year for terms starting in April on 59 boards citywide.

Teens have occasionally been tapped for the advisory but oft-heeded boards in the past. But the new law enshrines a voting role for younger teens among members who generally have been 18 and older.

Around the country, some school boards have student members. Takoma Park, Maryland, even lowered its voting age to 16 for municipal elections.