Bill > LD175

This bill proposes an amendment to the Maine Constitution that would explicitly clarify voter eligibility requirements, specifying that only United States citizens who are 18 years or older and have established residency in the state can vote in elections, including those for Governor, Senators, Representatives, and local elections in their city, town, or plantation. The proposed amendment maintains the existing exception for persons under guardianship due to mental illness and includes provisions related to military service members and students, ensuring that being stationed in a military location or attending a school does not automatically confer voting rights. The bill outlines a process for a statewide referendum in November where Maine residents will vote on whether to ratify this constitutional amendment, with the Governor responsible for proclaiming the amendment's adoption if a majority of voters support it. The proposed language also updates some terminology, such as changing "servicemen" to "service members," and retains existing provisions about Native Americans' voting rights on tribal reservations.

Military Affairs and Security

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=175&snum=132