Augusta, ME — Beginning May 1, 2025, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will introduce a new state license plate design — the Pine Tree Plate — impacting the majority of Maine residents.

"The Chickadee plates are in rough shape given their age, so we’re excited to roll out the first new standard license plate design in over 25 years starting May 1,” said Secretary of State Shenna Bellows. “Mainers have design options — a classic design or a new Pine Tree plate — and they can make their choice online, in person, or by mail depending on what’s best for them.” 

Sarah Hansen, Director

Maine Semiquincentennial Commission

Maine State Archives

sarah.e.hansen@maine.gov 

Phone: 207-446-6587 

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National Resources

Maine is one of 56 states/territories with a commission that helps coordinate activities and programming for the upcoming Semiquincentennial. Maine is connected to these coordinating programs primarily through two organizations.

American Association for State and Local History (AASLH)

 

February 2026 

Founding Memories: America at 250 Lecture Series

February 12 at 6:00pm: Revolutionary Dreams: A Black Power Bicentennial with Dr. Amber Wiley (virtual)

Meetings will be held at the temporary offices of the Secretary of State and/or over Zoom. 

Shenna Bellows, Maine Secretary of State

Secretary of State Shenna Bellows is Maine’s 50th Secretary of State, sworn into her first two-year term in the position on Jan. 4, 2021. Secretary Bellows is Maine’s first female Secretary of State.

To guide its work, the Commission developed three foundational pillars. 

Connect: Uniting Maine’s Stories with America’s Legacy

• Foster a sense of community and shared heritage through collaborative events and discussions.

Share: Illuminating Maine’s Legacy in America’s Story

• Provide engaging and informative programs that highlight Maine's role in American history and the broader national narrative.

Learn: Examining Maine’s Role in America’s Ongoing Journey