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An Act To Promote the Integrity of Citizens' Initiatives
Emergency preamble. Whereas, acts and resolves of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and
Whereas,  it is imperative that this legislation take effect immediately so that it will be in place if a citizens' initiative is filed to be put on the ballot for the next election; and
Whereas,  in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,
Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:
Sec. 1. 21-A MRSA §901, sub-§8  is enacted to read:
 
8.  Person gathering signatures.     A person who gathers signatures for a people's veto referendum or the direct initiative of legislation must be a voter registered in the State.
Emergency clause.  In view of the emergency cited in the preamble, this legislation takes effect when approved.
 
SUMMARY
This bill requires that a person who collects signatures for a citizens' initiative must be a voter registered in Maine.