The ability to participate in elections is fundamental. It is of the utmost performance that every person can make their voice heard at the ballot box. However, LD1149 would make it more difficult — and for some people, practically impossible — to vote.

“An Act to Require an Individual to Present Photographic Identification for the Purposes of Voting” is a voter suppression referendum that will keep eligible voters from being able to actively participate in our political process. Among other issues, LD1149 would eliminate ongoing absentee ballots, cut the time period for early absentee voting by two days, impose barriers to the use of secure ballot drop-off boxes, and prevent voters from requesting an absentee ballot over the phone. In addition, LD1149 would require voters to provide photo ID from a restrictive list of acceptable forms of ID every time they vote.

GLAD Law submitted testimony in opposition to LD1149 highlighting the barriers photo ID requirements and restricted absentee voting and early voting will have on all Mainers, especially on transgender voters. Read our testimony to learn more.

GLAD Law is a member of the Save Maine Absentee Voting Coalition, a diverse, nonpartisan group of organizations from across Maine who believe that fair, open, and accessible elections are the cornerstone of our democracy.