AUBURN, Maine — Just three weeks after Election Day, attention in Maine has already shifted to next year’s elections. A citizen initiative to require photo identification at the polls is gaining traction, with supporters saying it will strengthen voter confidence and critics warning of potential barriers to voting.
The proposal
The initiative, spearheaded by State Rep. Laurel Libby, R-Auburn, and the conservative grassroots group she co-founded, "The Dinner Table," seeks to implement new voter ID requirements in Maine. If enacted, voters would need to show photo identification at polling places. For absentee voters, the law would require either a copy of their ID or an ID number submitted with the ballot.
"Maine has strong elections, but there are different ways we can strengthen them even further," Libby said. She added that more than 125,000 Mainers signed the petition supporting the initiative on Election Day.
Libby said the measure has enough signatures to appear on the ballot. However, the Secretary of State’s office still needs to review and certify those signatures.
Concerns over impact
Critics argue the proposed law could create unnecessary challenges for voters. Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows pointed out that the state already requires proof of identity and residency during voter registration. Adding a photo ID requirement at polling places could lead to longer wait times and possibly turn away valid voters.
"Even if they were valid citizens and duly registered, perhaps their license has expired," Bellows said.
The ACLU of Maine also voiced concerns, highlighting potential obstacles for voters who rely on absentee ballots, such as older adults and people with disabilities.
"This is going to make it harder for all of them to vote," Zachary Heiden, chief counsel for the organization, said.
Addressing barriers
Libby countered concerns about accessibility, noting that the proposal includes measures to provide IDs to those who cannot afford them.
"We should strengthen elections in any way we can," Libby said, emphasizing her belief in the necessity of the proposed law.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the secretary of state's office says there were no reports of illegal voting in the 2024 election.
