For Immediate Release
October 8, 2003
Contact: Dan A. Gwadosky
207-626-8400

Secretary of State Gwadosky Highlights Online Election Information

Maine's Top Election Official Encourages Maximum Participation and
Reminds Voters of Same Day Registration and Absentee Balloting Opportunities

AUGUSTA, MAINE -- Maine's top election official announced on Wednesday that detailed information about the November 4, 2003 referendum election is available online. Secretary of State Dan A. Gwadosky explained that the Maine Citizen's Guide to the Referendum Election, which includes complete ballot question language, along with summaries and explanations of each measure, is just a click away at www.Maine.gov.

In addition to the six ballot questions and related information, the Secretary of State's website also offers the Maine Voter Guide and the Guide to Absentee Voting in Maine. Secretary Gwadosky noted that these resources provide instructions about the voting process - from voter registration to casting a ballot. He encouraged Maine voters to take advantage of these online services available through Maine.gov.

"Maine citizens have historically taken their voting responsibilities seriously, and have often been among our nation's leaders in voter turnout at election time. Our state also enjoys a long tradition of providing its citizens with exceptional ballot access and abundant information necessary for making informed decisions, Secretary Gwadosky commented.

In announcing the availability of online election information, Secretary Gwadosky reminded voters that Maine law permits same day voter registration - enabling citizens to register and cast a ballot on election day. Additionally, he highlighted the fact that voters can request an absentee ballot from their municipal clerk, if this is a more convenient way for them to participate prior to election day.

Voter registration must be completed in person, when it takes place nine business days before an election. During that period, anyone wishing to register should visit their municipal clerk or registrar. Anyone requesting and returning an absentee ballot by mail should do so as soon as possible to ensure sufficient time for delivery. To be counted, a voted absentee ballot must be received by the clerk by 8:00 p.m. on election day. Any absentee ballots received after this time are not counted.

Secretary Gwadosky thanked Maine's Attorney General Steven Rowe and State Treasurer Dale McCormick for their assistance in developing the Maine Citizen's Guide to the Referendum Election, which will be available in paper form through the State's Division of Elections and at municipal offices later this month. Voters can also obtain information on voter registration and absentee balloting by contacting their municipal clerk or the Elections Division at 624-7650.