Question 1 - Myths vs. Facts
Myth #1: The initiative requires voters’ ID to match their birth name.
The Facts: There is no requirement in the initiative for an ID to match a person’s birth name. The law only requires that voters present a valid, unexpired photo ID that matches the name under which they’re registered to vote, not their birth certificate name.
Myth #2: This initiative eliminates all absentee voting.
The Facts: It shortens the early absentee voting period by two days, not the general absentee voting deadline. Ballots still must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day, and voters can still request ballots in advance, including by mail or in person.
Myth #3: Voters won’t be allowed to remotely request an absentee ballot.
The Facts: Yes, phone requests are no longer accepted—but the initiative does allow requests by mail, in person, or electronically (online), and it ensures verification by requiring voter identification on the application. This increases ballot integrity while preserving access.
Myth #4: The initiative eliminates seniors’ and people with disabilities’ right to vote
The Facts: Yes, the provision for automatic ongoing absentee ballot status is repealed. However, nothing prohibits seniors or people with disabilities from continuing to request absentee ballots for each election. They just must submit a request each time with the proper ID.
Myth #5: The law prevents voters from relying on family or friends to return ballots.
The Facts: Family members may still deliver absentee ballots in person on behalf of voters. The law specifically allows this and simply prohibits non-family 3rd parties from submitting ballots unless previously authorized.
Myth #6: This is a national voter suppression effort.
The Facts: This initiative was brought by citizen petition in Maine and is tailored to Maine law. It does not mirror laws in other states and includes significant accommodations:
Free state-issued photo ID cards will be available to anyone 18+ without a driver’s license…
Religious exemptions are included for voters who oppose being photographed.
Myth #7: This makes Maine one of the most restrictive voter ID states.
The Facts: Maine’s proposed law includes reasonable, common forms of ID:
- Maine driver’s license or state ID
- U.S. passport
- Military or veteran ID
State-issued interim ID (used while awaiting an official ID)It is not as restrictive as laws in states that limit ID to only a driver’s license or require birth certificates.
Myth #8: The initiative bans all prepaid postage for absentee ballots.
The Facts: The initiative prohibits municipalities from prepaying return postage, even if they wish to. This is one of the few restrictive elements in the bill. However, this does not prevent voters from mailing ballots—it simply shifts the cost (typically a stamp) to the voter.
