Indiana lawmaker wants young age requirement for Legislature

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - A 26-year-old lawmaker wants to see Indiana's Constitution changed so that people as young as 18 could run for the state Legislature.

The constitution currently sets minimum ages of 21 to serve in the Indiana House and 25 for the Indiana Senate. But Democratic Rep. Chris Chyung of Dyer says lowering that age requirement could spark more interest in elected office among young people.

Chyung says it is also a matter of fairness as 18-year-olds can join the military and be sent overseas to fight for their country. He says he's seeking Republican co-sponsors to help the proposal advance in the GOP-dominated Legislature next year.

The proposal would need to win approval in two separate legislative sessions before going before voters in a statewide referendum.