08 ncac 04 .0304             OPERATION AND MATTER OF VOTING ON VOTING SYSTEMS

(a)  Prior to the opening of the polls, the precinct officials shall open the voting system and examine the ballot for accuracy and examine the counters or other method to determine there is a zero balance. Any persons interested in viewing this procedure may observe but shall not interfere or impede the process. If the system prints a zero tape or other paper document, the document shall be maintained and secured in the manner prescribed by the manufacturer and the county board of elections.

(b)  The voter shall follow the instructions contained on the voting system. Only official ballots shall be introduced into the voting system. Spoiled or damaged ballots shall not be introduced into the voting system. If a voter improperly marks or damages a ballot, it shall be returned to the precinct official, marked as spoiled and maintained as specified by the county board of elections. The voter may not receive a replacement ballot until the spoiled or damaged ballot is returned to the precinct official. The voter shall not be given more than three replacement ballots.

(c)  Except as provided for curbside voting in G.S. 163-166.9, official ballots shall not leave the voting enclosure during the time that voting is being conducted there.

History Note:        Authority G.S. 163-22; 163-165.7;

Temporary Adoption Eff. April 15, 2002;

Eff. August 1, 2004;

Readopted Eff. June 1, 2019.