Senate gives initial approval to Sen. Beebe-Center bill to make local election information more available online

AUGUSTA — On Monday, June 12, the Senate gave initial approval to a bill sponsored by Sen. Pinny Beebe-Center, D-Rockland. LD 577, “An Act to Increase Availability and Security of Election Information on Government Websites,” would direct the Secretary of State to make local election information more accessible online.

“Easing the burden on municipal employees is my top priority for this bill, and having an easy way to access local election information will be a helpful resource for all Mainers,” said Sen. Beebe-Center. “I am thankful for my colleagues support in helping our municipal offices when elections come around. This will be a helpful tool that is long overdue.”

The amended legislation requires the Secretary of State to provide a website, or equivalent online platform, for voters to access information on upcoming elections including local elections — to the extent that municipalities provide that information to the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State would also work with municipalities to increase election security.

Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows supported the bill.

This bill awaits enactment in the Senate.