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 make several key changes. Firstly, it clarifies that the Welsh Assembly can set multiple Welsh income tax rates (basic, higher, and additional) independently. Secondly, it introduces provisions for lowering the voting age to 16 in future Welsh referendums. This includes establishing a separate register for 16 and 17-year-old voters and outlining the eligibility criteria for voting based on whether the referendum follows a "youth franchise resolution" (a resolution passed by the Assembly setting the voting age at 16).

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify any increases or decreases in government spending. The costs associated with creating and maintaining a separate register for 16 and 17-year-old voters and administering the different voting process for referendums are potential indirect costs, but precise figures are unavailable.

Groups Affected

• Welsh taxpayers: Will be subject to Welsh income tax rates set by the Welsh Assembly.
• Welsh Assembly: Gains more control over the Welsh income tax system and the ability to set different rates.
• 16 and 17-year-olds in Wales: May be given the right to vote in future Welsh referendums, depending on the outcome of future Assembly resolutions.
• Electoral Registration Offices in Wales: Will be responsible for implementing the provisions for registering young voters.

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