AUGUSTA - The Maine House of Representatives gave initial approval Wednesday to a bill from Rep. Teresa S. Pierce, D-Falmouth, that would safeguard Maine's elections against ballot and voting equipment interference. The vote was 76-55.
If passed into law, LD 1779 would clarify the chain of custody of ballots and voting machines in Maine, ensuring there is certainty regarding who may legally possess them. The measure would protect election integrity in Maine by preventing unauthorized individuals from gaining access to ballots and voting machines.
"Our elections are the foundation of our democracy," said Pierce. "I am grateful that the House voted today in support of keeping our elections secure. LD 1779 will prevent individuals and groups with partisan agendas from gaining access to ballots and voting machines, and Maine voters deserve to know we are doing everything we can to protect their vote."
During the bill's public hearing in January, Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows testified in support of the measure.
"We are fortunate in Maine to have well-run elections, and this bill further strengthens the chain of custody to guard against outside political interference in election administration," said Bellows. "This bill is a safeguard against election subversion and will help prevent problems other states like Arizona have had where the integrity of ballots and equipment has been compromised."
The legislation faces further votes in the House and Senate before it will be sent to the governors desk.
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.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Pierce], c. 812-1111
Emily Cook [Bellows], c. 441-0405