An Act To Amend The Election Recount Process

LD 1289 amends Maine's election recount process by reducing the vote percentage thresholds for required deposits by half. For legislative/single-county races, deposits now apply to margins over 0.75% (previously 1.5%) instead of 1.5%, with tiered fees ($500 for 0.75%-2%, $1,000 for 2%-3%, etc.). For statewide races, deposits apply to margins over 0.5% (previously 1%) or 500 votes (previously 1,000). Candidates must pay actual recount costs (including state worker payroll) after the process, with refunds if deposits exceed costs or additional payment if costs exceed deposits. Deposits become forfeited once ballots are secured by law enforcement, even if the candidate withdraws.