Each Friday, we’ll bring you updates on the latest civil liberties news from Maine and the nation.
Report from the Commission to Study Election Practices in Maine:
We’re excited that the commission has rejected voter ID and endorsed a system of true early voting. And we’re proud of our members who testified at every public hearing the commission held. But, we’re concerned about some recommendations that could tighten residency requirements and potentially discourage young people from voting. Read Shenna’s full breakdown here.
Warrants for Phone Records: In Maine and Maryland
The good work of the ACLU happens nationwide. In Maine, we’re working to advance two bills that protect your cell phone privacy. One prevents the police from obtaining phone records without a warrant. The other bill prevents police from warrantless location tracking through your phone or other GPS devices. Similarly, our colleagues in Maryland are fighting a bill that would allow officers to obtain cell phone records without a warrant. Read more about their good work here.
Maine Senators Ask CIA-Nominee Tough Questions about Drones:
All eyes were on the Senate Intelligence Committee last night for a hearing with John Brennan, nominated to lead the CIA. The ACLU has longstanding concerns about what role Brennan may have played in targeted killing, torture, extraordinary rendition and secret prisons during his tenure at the CIA. Both senators from Maine sit on the Intelligence Committee and used the opportunity to question Brennan about the killing program. For a full run-down of the hearing, click here:
SNOPA:
Maine representative Chellie Pingree is co-sponsoring the Social Network Online Privacy Act (SNOPA) which prohibits employers, colleges, and universities from demanding access to your social media accounts. This federal legislation mirrors the work we’re doing on the state level to keep your social media account access private.
