Sec. 12.5. (a) Notwithstanding section 12(b) of this chapter and subject to subsection (b), absentee ballot envelopes may be opened by machine instead of by the absentee ballot counters. For purposes of certification of voting systems under this article, a machine, the only function of which is the opening of envelopes, is not considered to be a voting system or part of a voting system.
(b) After making the applicable findings under section 12(b) of this chapter, the absentee ballot counters shall take out each ballot enclosed in an envelope opened under subsection (a) without unfolding or permitting a ballot to be unfolded or examined. The absentee ballots shall then continue to be processed as provided under section 12 and other applicable provisions of this chapter.
As added by P.L.278-2019, SEC.125. Amended by P.L.109-2021, SEC.59.
Structure Indiana Code
Article 11.5. Counting Absentee Ballots
Chapter 4. General Procedures for Counties
3-11.5-4-1. Circuit Court Clerk Records and Certifications
3-11.5-4-2. Recast of Certain Ballots
3-11.5-4-3.5. Absentee Ballot of Voter Required to Present Additional Information; Procedure
3-11.5-4-4. Treatment of Ballot Found Without Genuine Signature
3-11.5-4-7. Acceptance of Posted Absentee Ballots
3-11.5-4-8. Applicability; Certification of Voter Names; Delivery of Certificates
3-11.5-4-10. Time for Receipt of Ballots; Treatment
3-11.5-4-11. Opening Absentee Ballots; Procedure; Signature Comparison
3-11.5-4-12.5. Opening Absentee Ballots by Machine
3-11.5-4-13. Rejection of Absentee Ballots
3-11.5-4-13.5. Absentee Ballot Signature Comparison; Procedure; Signature Verification Affidavit
3-11.5-4-14. Rejected Ballots; Endorsement; Processing and Return
3-11.5-4-15. Challenge of Absentee Ballot at Polls; Procedure
3-11.5-4-16. Absentee Voter's Application as Affidavit; Challenge Procedure
3-11.5-4-17. Absentee Ballot of Deceased Voter
3-11.5-4-18. Voting in Person by Absentee Voter Who Has Not Returned Absentee Ballot
3-11.5-4-20. Absentee Voter Wishing to Vote in Person After Poll List Is Marked
3-11.5-4-21. Voter Appearing in Person Who Has Cast Rejected Absentee Ballot
3-11.5-4-21.5. Rejected Absentee Ballots May Not Be Opened; Exception
3-11.5-4-23.5. Appointment of Absentee Ballot Counters and Couriers in Marion County