Overview

This bill amends the Wales Bill, primarily focusing on clarifying the setting of Welsh income tax rates and establishing provisions for 16 and 17-year-olds to vote in future referendums in Wales.

Description

The amendments clarify that the Welsh Assembly can set multiple income tax rates (basic, higher, and additional) for Welsh taxpayers. The bill also introduces a mechanism to allow 16 and 17-year-olds to vote in Welsh referendums, contingent on a resolution passed by the Welsh Assembly. This requires the Assembly to explicitly state whether the voting age for the referendum should be 16 or 18. If a resolution to lower the voting age is passed, the bill details the procedures for registering 16 and 17-year-olds as voters and ensures the appropriate legal framework is in place.

Key Changes:

• Clarification of Welsh income tax rate setting powers for the Welsh Assembly.
• Introduction of a youth franchise for Welsh referendums, conditional upon a resolution from the Assembly.
• Provisions for the registration and protection of data for 16 and 17-year-old voters.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify changes to government spending. The financial impact will likely depend on the implementation of the new income tax rates and the cost of registering young voters, both of which would require further budgetary consideration.

Groups Affected

• Welsh Taxpayers: May experience changes in their income tax rates, depending on the rates set by the Welsh Assembly.
• Welsh Assembly: Gains clearer authority over Welsh income tax rates and the power to determine voting age for future referendums.
• 16 and 17-year-olds in Wales: May gain the right to vote in future referendums, subject to a resolution passed by the Welsh Assembly.
• Electoral Registration Services in Wales: Will be responsible for implementing the new procedures to register 16 and 17 year old voters should the Welsh Assembly decide to lower the voting age.

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