Some Illinois teens ready to vote in March primary

CHICAGO (WREX) - For the first time in history, 17-year-olds in Illinois will take to the polls for the March primary election.

Under a new law, Illinois residents who are U.S. citizens and were born on or before November 4, 1996 can register and vote in the March election because they will turn 18 before the general election in November.

Cook County Clerk David Orr says the practice will allow more people to vote in Illinois than ever before and will help young people establish voting habits early.