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 give their ballot to the election official operating the ballot machine, who will then place the ballot in an auxiliary compartment of the counting device. This ensures that the ballot will be hand-counted by election officials after the polls close.

The bill does not delete any existing legal language but adds this new provision to enhance voter choice and transparency in the ballot counting process. Additionally, the act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, allowing for the necessary adjustments to be made in the election process to accommodate this new option for voters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 656:42
As Amended by the Senate: 656:42