Bill > LD508

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to change how three key Maine state constitutional officers - the Secretary of State, Treasurer, and Attorney General - are selected. Currently, these officers are chosen by joint ballot of the Legislature, but the proposed amendment would require them to be elected directly by popular vote during the same election and in the same manner as Senators and Representatives. The bill also modifies the succession procedures for these offices, allowing vacancies to be filled by new popular elections instead of legislative appointment. If passed, the amendment would be put to Maine voters in a statewide referendum during the November election following the bill's passage, where voters will be asked to approve the change by voting "Yes" or "No" on a ballot measure. If a majority of voters support the amendment, it would become part of the Maine State Constitution upon the Governor's proclamation, fundamentally changing the selection process for these important state government positions from a legislative to a direct democratic method.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=508&snum=132