Members of the United Teen Equality Center have worked hard to give 17-year-olds in Lowell the right to vote in municipal elections, and yesterday their effort moved closer to success.

The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Kevin Murphy and endorsed by Reps. Tom Golden and Dave Nangle and Sen. Eileen Donoghue, received a favorable vote in the House Elections Committee and has advanced to the Committee on Bills in Third Reading. This represents the last stop on the way to a House vote. A positive recommendation from Chairman Vincent Pedone, D-Worcester, sends the bill to the House floor for debate.

If approved by the House, it moves to the Senate for a vote and then to the governor’s desk for his signature.

There is a sense of urgency in expediting the measure. It must receive all legislative approvals by Friday, Sept. 30, in order for the initiative to be placed on Lowell’s Nov. 8 citywide election ballot as a referendum question. Voters will then decide whether 17-years-olds get the right to vote in all Lowell municipal elections involving races for City Council, School Committee and regional school committee as well as local referendums.

Over the past several months, UTEC teens have testified before various legislative panels to present their case. Led by Lowell High students Susan Le, Carlene Kirksey and Bourin You, they’ve impressed legislators with their passion for city affairs and their understanding of voting laws. They’ve also visited more than 2,000 city homes to explain the issue to residents and ask for support.

The Sun applauds the dozens of UTEC members who have channeled great energy into this democratic cause, and worked through the legislative process to raise awareness for positive change. The city should be proud of them and the way they’ve conducted themselves in Boston and Lowell.

We urge Chairman Pedone to immediately move the bill to the House floor for consideration.