AUGUSTA - Gov. Janet Mills signed into law a bill on Friday that will safeguard Maine's elections against ballot and voting equipment interference. The legislation was sponsored by Rep. Teresa S. Pierce, D-Falmouth.
LD 1779 clarifies the chain of custody of ballots and voting machines in Maine, ensuring there is certainty regarding who may legally possess them. The measure protects election integrity in Maine by preventing unauthorized individuals from gaining access to ballots and voting machines.
"I was honored to sponsor this legislation that protects the foundation of our democracy," said Pierce. "Thanks to the support from Gov. Mills, Secretary Bellows and people across the state, Maine has taken an important step today towards keeping our elections secure and giving Maine voters peace of mind knowing their ballots are safe."
"Protecting ballots and voting equipment from outside interference is a vital part of keeping Maine's elections free, fair and secure," said Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. "This law ensures that Maine wont see the same problems states like Colorado and Arizona have experienced where voting equipment and ballots have been compromised by partisan entities."
The new law goes into effect 90 after the current session of the Legislature adjourns.
Pierce is a longtime champion of legislation to make Maine elections more accessible and secure. Last year, she sponsored a successful bill to allow eligible Mainers to register to vote using a secure online portal, which is scheduled to take effect in November 2023. She is serving her fourth term in the Maine House, representing House District 44, part of Falmouth. She is House chair of the budget-writing Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.
Photo caption: On Friday, Gov. Janet Mills signed into law a measure by Rep. Teresa S. Pierce, D-Falmouth, that will safeguard Maines elections against ballot and voting equipment interference. Pictured from left to right: Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, Gov. Mills and Rep. Pierce.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Pierce], c. 812-1111
Emily Cook [Bellows], c. 441-0405
Photo: On Friday, Gov. Janet Mills signed into law a measure by Rep. Teresa S. Pierce, D-Falmouth, that will safeguard Maines elections against ballot and voting equipment interference. Pictured from left to right: Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, Gov. Mills and Rep. Pierce.