RES 170 Draft 01 2010-2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ballot envelope is unsigned and is returned to the voter for signature. The ballot is not received until the signed envelope is returned. (d) Automated reports and computer programs may be used for the master list and logs tracking reissued, replacement, and challenged ballots. (e) Reissued and replacement ballots must be identified to ensure only the correct ballot is being counted. (f) Challenged ballots must be processed separately. (g) Check for valid signatures. (1) Compare voter's signature on the return ballot identification envelope to the signature on the voter's registration affidavit. (2) if the signature verification clerk is able to determine that the same person signed the return identification ballot envelope and the voter registration affidavit, the ballot may be processed. (3) If the signature does not match the voter registration affidavit and if it appears that another individual has signed for the registered voter on the ballot identification envelope, the ballot is invalidated. -10 Counting of ballots. (a) For Vote By Mail, the method of preparation for counting ballots may begin at any time before the day of election. Preparation may include removal of the outer, return identification envelope, sorting by precinct, etc. The preparation shall not include removal of the secrecy envelope until seven days prior to the day of election. (b) There shall be provision made to allow for attendance by official observers during all ballot processes. The county office of elections official will determine the number of official observers based on space and staff availability. One official observer may be selected from each qualified political party and other civic- minded groups as allowed by FIRS statutes. (c) In the presence of official observers, counting center employees may start to count the ballots on the day of the election. All handling and counting of the mailed -in ballots shall be according to the procedures provided by the rules adopted by the chief election officer pursuant to chapter 91. (d) A mailed ballot shall be counted only if: (1) It reaches an official dropsite by 6:00 p.m. on the day of election to be transported to the county clerk or counting center employees; (2) It is received by mail by the county clerk not later than 6:00 p.m. or transport from a designated dropsite where the ballot was received on the day of the election. The refusal to receive ballots after 6:00 p.m. on the day of the election or tally the ballots may only be suspended with prior approval of the chief elections officer in an emergency situation; (3) It is received in the return identification envelope; (4) The return identification envelope is signed by the voter to whom the ballot is issued and verified according to the procedures provided by the rules adopted 6