summary
Introduced
02/04/2025
02/04/2025
In Committee
02/04/2025
02/04/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
05/14/2025
05/14/2025
Introduced Session
132nd Legislature
Bill Summary
This bill requires the presentation of proof of identity in the form of a photograph identification document when voting in person or by absentee ballot and removes certain official documents from the list of forms of documentation accepted to verify the identity of an applicant who is registering to vote. Under the bill, acceptable photograph identification is a current and valid driver's license or nondriver identification card issued in this State, a United States passport, a military identification or a permit to carry a concealed handgun issued in this State if that permit includes a photograph. The bill provides that a student photograph identification document issued by a college or university in this State may not be accepted for voter identification when voting or when registering to vote. The bill also allows a person who does not possess a photograph identification document to request a free special voter photograph identification card from the Secretary of State.
AI Summary
This bill requires voters in Maine to present a photographic identification document when voting in person or by absentee ballot, marking a significant change to the state's voting procedures. The bill defines acceptable photo ID as a current and valid driver's license, state-issued non-driver ID, U.S. passport, military identification, or a state-issued concealed handgun permit with a photo. Notably, student IDs from colleges and universities will no longer be considered valid voter identification. For voters who do not have a qualifying photo ID, the Secretary of State must provide a free special voter photograph identification card upon request. The bill removes previous provisions allowing other forms of non-photographic government-issued identification, such as birth certificates or social security cards, for voter registration and voting. Additionally, absentee voters must now include a copy of an acceptable photo ID with their ballot. These new requirements will take effect on January 1, 2026, giving election officials and voters time to prepare for the change. The bill aims to enhance voter identification verification but may also potentially impact voter accessibility, particularly for individuals who do not regularly possess government-issued photo identification.
Committee Categories
Military Affairs and Security
Sponsors (8)
Reagan Paul (R)*,
Donald Ardell (R),
Steven Bishop (R),
Matt Harrington (R),
Arthur Mingo (R),
Katrina Smith (R),
Jim White (R),
Russell White (R),
Last Action
Pursuant to Joint Rule 310.3 Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD) (on 05/14/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=397&snum=132 |
| Fiscal Note: Text | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/bills_132nd/fiscalpdfs/FN039701.pdf |
| BillText | https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=HP0251&item=1&snum=132 |
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