PORTLAND, Maine — Voters in Maine are set to determine if the state will join others in enforcing voter identification requirements at polling places.

A conservative organization has been actively gathering signatures to place an initiative on the ballot that mandates the use of photographic identification when voting. According to a statement from the Maine Secretary of State’s office, the group has surpassed the minimum number of signatures necessary to bring the proposal to a vote.

As per the legal framework in Maine, this proposal will now face deliberation in the Legislature. Lawmakers have the option to either pass the measure themselves or allow the citizens to decide through a statewide vote in November. Given that Democrats currently hold a majority in the state Legislature and have previously dismissed voter ID initiatives, it is likely that the responsibility of deciding this matter will fall to voters.

The conservative political action committee known as the Dinner Table introduced the proposal. Republican state representative Laurel Libby, a co-founder of the committee, stated that the substantial volume of signatures indicates strong public backing for the voter ID measure. “The community has expressed its opinion loudly and clearly in favor of making voter ID a legal requirement in Maine,” Libby remarked. “This citizens initiative reflects the voice of the people.”

The National Conference of State Legislatures reports that over two-thirds of the U.S. states have implemented some form of voter ID law. The specifics of these laws can differ significantly, with some not requiring photo identification at all.

The Maine initiative would mandate the presentation of a photo ID and restrict municipalities to a single approved drop box for absentee ballots. It would also necessitate photo identification for individuals requesting absentee ballots.

However, the proposal has faced criticism from advocates for voting rights who argue that it could impose excessive restrictions on the electoral process. The League of Women Voters of Maine has publicly announced its opposition to the initiative. “It’s disheartening to witness Mainers advocating for new hurdles that could impede their fellow residents’ right to vote, especially in a state that prides itself on its high levels of voter engagement,” remarked Anna Kellar, the group’s executive director.