State Summary
Maine does not require post-election audits; however, the Maine supplemental budget for fiscal year 2022-2023 included measures that require the secretary of state to conduct a risk-limiting audit pilot following the 2024 general election. The secretary of state must submit a report on the audit pilot, including any legislative recommendations, to the legislature by February 2025. The secretary of state is also authorized to audit federal and state elections as of 2025 and may adopt rules governing the audit.
Voting Systems Used
Maine uses hand-marked paper ballots with optical scanners or hand count in polling places statewide, with ballot marking devices for accessibility. For the most up to date information please visit Verified Voting’s Verifier.
For an explanation on the types of voting equipment used, click here.
Audit Comprehensiveness
Maine does not require post-election audits, but it will begin an audit pilot program in 2024.
Transparency
Maine does not require post-election audits, but it will begin an audit pilot program in 2024.
Audit Counting Method
Maine does not require post-election audits, but it will begin an audit pilot program in 2024.
Type Of Audit Units
Maine does not require post-election audits, but it will begin an audit pilot program in 2024.
Contests & Issues Audited
Maine does not require post-election audits, but it will begin an audit pilot program in 2024.
Addressing Discrepancies
Maine does not require post-election audits, but it will begin an audit pilot program in 2024.
For recount laws, see the Recount Law Database.
Timeline
Maine does not require post-election audits, but it will begin an audit pilot program in 2024.
Binding On Official Outcomes
Maine does not require post-election audits, but it will begin an audit pilot program in 2024.
Oversight & Conduct
Maine does not require post-election audits, but it will begin an audit pilot program in 2024.
Ballot Protection
The warden of each polling place is in charge of making sure the ballot box is attended to during the election, at the close of which the warden gives the ballot box to the clerk, who is generally in charge of keeping it secure. For more information see ME. Rev. Stat. Title 21-A, § 628, §609, and §698.
Additional Targeted Samples
Maine does not require post-election audits, but it will begin an audit pilot program in 2024.