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Explore our coverage of government and politics.

Can You Take A 'Ballot Selfie' In Vermont? The Secretary Of State Says Yes

Emily Alfin Johnson
/
VPR
Secretary of State Jim Condos says that the practice is legal, because there's no Vermont law expressly prohibiting it. However, it is illegal to take a picture of another person's ballot.

Secretary of State Jim Condos says he believes it is legal for a voter to take a photograph with their ballot because Vermont election law does not expressly prohibit this practice.

At this time, 26 states ban voters from taking selfies of their ballots. Nine states allow it and in 15 states, including Vermont, election laws do not specifically address the issue.

In late September, a federal appeals court ruled that New Hampshire's ban on voter selfies was unconstitutional.

It's Time To Vote, Vermont. Here's Your Last Minute Guide.

Condos says this activity is not illegal in Vermont.

"There is nothing in state statute regarding taking pictures of your ballot," Condos explains. "If you're trying to take a picture with your camera of someone on the other side of the room by zooming in ... on their ballot as their filling it out or something that would be problematic. But there's nothing about taking a selfie in Vermont law."

Lawmakers could review this issue if enough town clerks are concerned about this practice.

Wondering what the rules are in other states? Click here for a state-by-state look at where 'ballot selfies' are and are not allowed by Andrea Suozzo.

Bob Kinzel has been covering the Vermont Statehouse since 1981 — longer than any continuously serving member of the Legislature. With his wealth of institutional knowledge, he answers your questions on our series, "Ask Bob."
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