Mo. Code Regs. tit. 15 § 30-9.010

Current through Register Vol. 49, No.12, June 17, 2024

Section 15 CSR 30-9.010 - [Rescinded effective 6/30/2024] Uniform Counting Standards-Punch Card Voting Systems

PURPOSE: This rule provides for standards to be used by election authorities when counting ballots cast using punch card voting systems.

(1) The election authority shall be responsible for insuring that the standards provided for in this rule are followed when counting ballots cast using punch card voting systems.

(2) Prior to tabulating ballots, all ballot cards shall be inspected by the election authority for hanging chad and/or damaged ballots.

(3) Inspection of ballot cards shall be conducted using the following guidelines:

(A) The election authority shall appoint a bipartisan team to inspect all ballots where a question exists about the condition of a ballot or existence of hanging chad;

(B) All ballot card inspections conducted pursuant to this section shall be conducted by examining the ballot card from the back of the card;

(C) If a ballot is determined to be damaged, the bipartisan team shall spoil the original ballot and duplicate the voter's intent on the new ballot, provided that there is an undisputed method of matching the duplicate card with its original after it has been placed with the remainder of the ballot cards from that precinct; and

(D) If a chad is determined to be hanging by two (2) or less corners, it shall be removed prior to being tabulated.

(4) In jurisdictions using punch card systems, a valid vote for a write-in candidate must include the following:

(A) A distinguishing mark in the square immediately preceding the name of the candidate;

(B) The name of the candidate. If the name of the candidate, as written by the voter, is substantially as declared by the candidate it shall be counted, or in those circumstances where the names of candidates are similar, the names of candidates as shown on voter registration records shall be counted; and

(C) The name of the office for which the candidate is to be elected.

(5) Whenever a hand recount of votes is ordered of punch card ballots, the provisions of this section shall be used to determine voter intent.

15 CSR 30-9.010

AUTHORITY: section 115.225, RSMo 2000.* Original rule filed Aug. 8, 2001, effective March 1, 2002.

Rescinded by Missouri Register May 15, 2024/volume 49, Number 10, effective 6/30/2024.

*Original authority: 115.225, RSMo 1977, amended 1993, 1995.