About the Department of the Secretary of State

The Department of the Secretary of State touches the lives of virtually every Maine resident. From safeguarding the original Maine State Constitution and preserving millions of precious historic documents, to conducting state elections and testing motor vehicle operators, the broad array of Department functions is unusual and interesting.

In Maine, the Secretary of State oversees one cohesive Department made up of three distinct bureaus: the Maine State Archives, the Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions (CEC), and the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). As a Constitutional Officer, the Secretary is elected biennially through joint ballot of the Maine State Legislature, and is charged with carrying out the Department's diverse responsibilities and unique mission.

Because customer service and government efficiency are top priorities, the Department is recognized as a leader in the effort to enhance access to information and services through the use of technology. With more than 20 online services already in place, the Department of the Secretary of State is demonstrating the exciting possibilities for making e-Government services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Through a partnership with the Information Resource of Maine (InforME), new online services are being launched on a regular basis.

Importantly, the Department takes its responsibilities in the area of elections and civic education very seriously. Through comprehensive initiatives, the Secretary of State's office conducts a variety of projects designed to strengthen our democracy.

The Department's commitment to young people is evident in programs such as the Maine Student Mock Election and the Eighth Grade Citizenship Awards. But that commitment carries throughout the entire Department, as evidenced by the state's graduated license program and the Young Driver's Contract.

This site, like our Department, has a lot to offer Maine citizens, businesses and visitors, so please feel free to browse and come back often. If you have questions about the site, or if additional information is needed, please call the Secretary of State's Office in Augusta at (207) 626-8400.

Shenna Bellows
Secretary of State
[Biographical Information]

Historical List of Secretaries of State, 1820-present - This link will take you to the Law and Legislative Reference Library website.