News

Maine adopts new voting access law, including student ID use

Maine adopts new voting access law, including student ID use

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) Maine has approved a suite of rule changes designed to make the process of voting in elections go more smoothly.

Gov. Janet Mills, a Democrat, signed the proposal into law on Wednesday. One aspect of the proposal allows students at Maine schools to use student photo identification cards as proof of identity when registering to vote.

The proposal is also designed to give the public more information about secure ballot drop box locations and how to vote after the absentee voting period has closed. It states that municipalities “shall include these instructions on a sign posted at the municipal office and on any website, social media page or other media that the municipality uses to communicate election information.”

The bill also allows the secretary of state to develop rules about poll watchers.

Democratic Rep. Jay McCreight proposed the changes. McCreight said the bill “defends voting rights and helps more Maine voters understand the election process.”

Latest Headlines

7 hours ago in Local

Maine Legislature Passes Bill to Study Costs of Climate Change

The bill passed mostly on party lines this week

8 hours ago in Local

Judge Gives DOJ Access to Maine Sports Rosters, But Not List of Transgender Athletes

The judge questioned the motivation of the federal request for information on transgender athletes.

12 hours ago in Local

Motorcyclist killed in 3-vehicle crash in Raymond

A motorcyclist was killed in a three-vehicle in crash in Raymond on Monday evening.

12 hours ago in Local

New data show most ICE detainees in Maine immigration sweep did not have criminal convictions

New data shows only a fraction of nearly 200 people arrested during January’s immigration enforcement surge in Maine had criminal convictions.

23 hours ago in Local, National

A Build America, Buy America law is causing construction delays

It has a catchy name — Build America, Buy America — and the lauded goal of bringing manufacturing jobs back…