Earlier this year the Legislature took an important step toward protecting the integrity of Maine elections by requiring new voters to register to vote two business days before elections. Most states have a similar or stiffer requirement.

Those in opposition want voters to undo the law by voting yes on Question 1. They claim disenfranchisement of voters and claim there have been no recorded instances of fraud.

Voting in this country is a constitutional right and privilege that must be protected from abuse.

Even if there has been no documentation of any serious fraud, it is obvious that it could easily happen. State systems are not adequate and cities and towns do not have budgets or time to properly check the eligibility of every voter who registers on voting day, especially with no voter identification required.

Before anyone gets excited by opposition ads, here are the facts. Once registered to vote in a city or town, people do not have to register again as long as they live there. If they move to or within Maine, they can register to vote when they register their vehicles, by mail, or at their town offices or city halls on any business day of the year, up to two days before an election.

Elections have consequences and every vote should be thoughtful. Any group trying to convince unregistered citizens to vote for their cause or candidate should have to also get them to register in time.

I am voting against Question 1.

Bruce Conant, Hebron