This bill introduces a new provision allowing voters the option to request that their ballots be hand-counted. Specifically, it amends RSA 656:42 by adding a new paragraph (XII) that states any voter may request their ballot to be hand-counted. Upon making this request, the voter is instructed to hand their ballot to the election official at the ballot machine, who will then place it in the auxiliary compartment of the ballot counting device. The ballots will be hand-counted by election officials after the polls close.

The bill does not include any deletions from current law but adds this new right for voters. It is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, with an effective date of September 30, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 656:42
As Amended by the Senate: 656:42
Version adopted by both bodies: 656:42
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 656:42