reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.520 - Felony conviction—Restoration of voting rights.

RCW 29A.08.520
Felony conviction—Restoration of voting rights.
(1) For a felony conviction in a Washington state court, the right to vote is automatically restored as long as the person is not serving a sentence of total confinement under the jurisdiction of the department of corrections. For a felony conviction in a federal court or any state court other than a Washington state court, the right to vote is automatically restored as long as the person is no longer incarcerated. A person who has been convicted of a felony and is either sentenced to a term of total confinement under the jurisdiction of the department of corrections or otherwise incarcerated as provided for in this subsection must reregister to vote prior to voting.
(2) At least once a month, the secretary of state shall compare the list of registered voters to a list of persons who are not eligible to vote as provided in subsection (1) of this section. If a registered voter is not eligible to vote as provided in this section, the secretary of state or county auditor shall confirm the match through a date of birth comparison and suspend the voter registration from the official state voter registration list. The secretary of state or county auditor shall send to the person at his or her last known voter registration address and at the department of corrections, if the person is serving a sentence of total confinement under the jurisdiction of the department, a notice of the proposed cancellation and an explanation of the requirements for restoring the right to vote and reregistering. To the extent possible, the secretary of state shall time the comparison required by this subsection to allow notice and cancellation of voting rights for ineligible voters prior to a primary or general election.
(3) For the purposes of this section, a sentence of total confinement does not include confinement imposed as a sanction for a community custody violation under RCW 9.94A.633(1).
[ 2021 c 10 § 1; 2013 c 11 § 19. Prior: (2009 c 369 § 27 repealed by 2013 c 11 § 95); 2009 c 325 § 1; 2005 c 246 § 15; 2004 c 267 § 126; 2003 c 111 § 233; prior: 1994 c 57 § 42. Formerly RCW 29.10.097.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2021 c 10: "This act takes effect January 1, 2022." [ 2021 c 10 § 8.]
Effective date—2005 c 246: See note following RCW 10.64.140.
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
Severability—Effective date—1994 c 57: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
Restoration of civil rights: RCW 9.92.066, 9.94A.637, 9.94A.885, 9.95.260, chapter 9.96 RCW.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.540 - Records preservation.

RCW 29A.08.540
Records preservation.
Registration records of persons whose voter registrations have been canceled as authorized under this title must be preserved in the manner prescribed by rule by the secretary of state. Information from such canceled registration records is available for public inspection and copying to the same extent established by RCW 29A.08.710 for other voter registration information.
[ 2004 c 267 § 127; 2003 c 111 § 235. Prior: 1991 c 81 § 26; 1971 ex.s. c 202 § 32; 1965 ex.s. c 156 § 1; 1965 c 9 § 29.10.110; prior: 1961 c 32 § 2; 1947 c 85 § 5; 1933 c 1 § 21; Rem. Supp. 1947 § 5114-21. Formerly RCW 29.10.110.]
NOTES:
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
Effective date—1991 c 81: See note following RCW 29A.84.540.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.610 - Dual registration or voting detection.

RCW 29A.08.610
Dual registration or voting detection.
The secretary of state shall conduct an ongoing list maintenance program designed to detect persons registered in more than one county or voting in more than one county in an election. This program must be applied uniformly throughout the state and must be nondiscriminatory in its application.
The office of the secretary of state shall search the statewide voter registration list to find registered voters with the same date of birth and similar names. Once the potential duplicate registrations are identified, the secretary of state shall refer the potential duplicate registrations to the appropriate county auditors, who shall compare the signatures on each voter registration record and, after confirming that a duplicate registration exists properly resolve the duplication.
If a voter is suspected of voting in two or more counties in an election, the county auditors in each county shall cooperate without delay to determine the voter's county of residence. The county auditor of the county of residence of the voter suspected of voting in two or more counties shall take action under RCW 29A.84.010 without delay.
[ 2009 c 369 § 28; 2004 c 267 § 129; 2003 c 111 § 237; 2001 c 41 § 10; 1999 c 100 § 4. Formerly RCW 29.10.185.]
NOTES:
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.615 - "Active," "inactive" registered voters—"Pending" registrations.

RCW 29A.08.615
"Active," "inactive" registered voters—"Pending" registrations.
(1) Registered voters are divided into two categories, "active" and "inactive." All registered voters are classified as active, unless assigned to inactive status by the county auditor.
(2) Persons signing up to register to vote as future voters as defined under RCW 29A.04.070 are classified as "pending" until the person will be at least eighteen years of age by the next election, or eligible to participate in the next presidential primary or primary under RCW 29A.08.110 or 29A.08.170.
[ 2023 c 361 § 6; 2018 c 109 § 9; 2003 c 111 § 238. Prior: 1994 c 57 § 34. Formerly RCW 29.10.015.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2018 c 109: See notes following RCW 29A.08.170.
Severability—Effective date—1994 c 57: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.620 - Change of address information for mail ballots—Assignment of voter to inactive status—Confirmation notice.

RCW 29A.08.620
Change of address information for mail ballots—Assignment of voter to inactive status—Confirmation notice.
(1) Each county auditor must request change of address information from the postal service for all mail ballots.
(2) The county auditor shall transfer the registration of a voter and send an acknowledgment notice to the new address informing the voter of the transfer if change of address information received by the county auditor from the postal service, the department of licensing, or another agency designated to provide voter registration services indicates that the voter has moved within the county.
(3) The county auditor shall place a voter on inactive status and send to all known addresses a confirmation notice and a voter registration application if change of address information received by the county auditor from the postal service, the department of licensing, or another agency designated to provide voter registration services indicates that the voter has moved from one county to another.
(4) The county auditor shall place a voter on inactive status and send to all known addresses a confirmation notice if any of the following occur:
(a) Any document mailed by the county auditor to a voter is returned by the postal service as undeliverable without address correction information; or
(b) Change of address information received from the postal service, the department of licensing, or another state agency designated to provide voter registration services indicates that the voter has moved out of the state.
[ 2011 c 10 § 17; 2009 c 369 § 29. Prior: 2004 c 267 § 130; 2004 c 266 § 8; 2003 c 111 § 239; prior: 1994 c 57 § 38. Formerly RCW 29.10.071.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
Effective date—2004 c 266: See note following RCW 29A.04.575.
Severability—Effective date—1994 c 57: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.625 - Voting by inactive or canceled voters.

RCW 29A.08.625
Voting by inactive or canceled voters.
(1) A voter whose registration has been made inactive under this chapter and who requests to vote at an ensuing election before two federal general elections have been held must be allowed to vote a regular ballot applicable to the voter's current residence address, and the voter's registration record updated and restored to active status.
(2) An eligible voter whose registration has been properly canceled under this chapter shall be allowed to register to vote at the voter's current residence address.
[ 2023 c 466 § 24; 2009 c 369 § 30; 2003 c 111 § 240; 1994 c 57 § 47. Formerly RCW 29.10.220.]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1994 c 57: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.630 - Return of inactive voter to active status—Cancellation of registration.

RCW 29A.08.630
Return of inactive voter to active status—Cancellation of registration.
(1) The county auditor shall return an inactive voter to active voter status if, prior to the passage of two federal general elections, the voter:
(a) Notifies the auditor of a change of address;
(b) Responds to a confirmation notice with information that he or she continues to reside at the registration address; or
(c) Votes or attempts to vote in a primary, special election, or general election.
(2) If the inactive voter fails to provide a notice or take an action as described in subsection (1) of this section, the auditor shall cancel the person's voter registration.
(3) The county auditor must cancel an inactive voter registration when receiving information indicating that the inactive voter has moved out of state or died.
[ 2023 c 466 § 25; 2009 c 369 § 31; 2004 c 267 § 131; 2003 c 111 § 241. Prior: 1994 c 57 § 39. Formerly RCW 29.10.075.]
NOTES:
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
Severability—Effective date—1994 c 57: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.635 - Confirmation notices—Form, contents.

RCW 29A.08.635
Confirmation notices—Form, contents.
Confirmation notices must be on a form prescribed by, or approved by, the secretary of state and must request that the voter verify that the voter continues to reside at the address of record and desires to continue to use that address for voting purposes, or provide a new residence address for voting, or provide information that the voter no longer resides in the state. The notice must inform the voter that if the voter does not respond to the notice and does not vote in either of the next two federal general elections, the voter's registration will be canceled.
[ 2023 c 466 § 26; 2009 c 369 § 32; 2003 c 111 § 242. Prior: 1994 c 57 § 45. Formerly RCW 29.10.200.]
NOTES:
Severability—Effective date—1994 c 57: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.640 - Confirmation notice—Response, auditor's action.

RCW 29A.08.640
Confirmation notice—Response, auditor's action.
(1) If the response to the confirmation notice from the voter indicates that the voter has moved within the county, the auditor shall transfer the voter's registration and send the voter an acknowledgment notice.
(2) If the response from the voter indicates that the voter moved out of the county, but within the state, the auditor shall cancel the voter's registration and notify the county auditor of the voter's new county of residence.
(3) If the response from the voter indicates that the voter has left the state, the auditor shall cancel the voter's registration on the official state voter registration list.
[ 2009 c 369 § 33; 2004 c 267 § 132; 2003 c 111 § 243. Prior: 1994 c 57 § 46. Formerly RCW 29.10.210.]
NOTES:
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
Severability—Effective date—1994 c 57: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.710 - Originals and automated files—Public disclosure.

RCW 29A.08.710
Originals and automated files—Public disclosure.
(1) The county auditor shall have custody of the original voter registration records and voter registration sign up records for each county. The original voter registration form must be filed without regard to precinct and is considered confidential and unavailable for public inspection and copying. An automated file of all registered voters must be maintained pursuant to RCW 29A.08.125. An auditor may maintain the automated file in lieu of filing or maintaining the original voter registration forms if the automated file includes all of the information from the original voter registration forms including, but not limited to, a retrievable facsimile of each voter's signature.
(2)(a) The following information contained in voter registration records or files regarding a voter or a group of voters is available for public inspection and copying, except as provided in RCW 40.24.060 and (b) of this subsection: The voter's name, address, political jurisdiction, gender, year of birth, voting record, date of registration, and registration number. No other information from voter registration records or files is available for public inspection or copying.
(b) Disclosure of information on individuals under the age of 18 is subject to RCW 29A.08.725.
[ 2023 c 466 § 27; 2023 c 361 § 7; 2018 c 109 § 10; 2005 c 246 § 17; 2004 c 267 § 133; 2003 c 111 § 246; 1994 c 57 § 17; 1991 c 81 § 21; 1971 ex.s. c 202 § 17; 1965 c 9 § 29.07.130. Prior: 1933 c 1 § 13, part; RRS § 5114-13, part. Formerly RCW 29.07.130.]
NOTES:
Reviser's note: This section was amended by 2023 c 361 § 7 and by 2023 c 466 § 27, each without reference to the other. Both amendments are incorporated in the publication of this section under RCW 1.12.025(2). For rule of construction, see RCW 1.12.025(1).
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2018 c 109: See notes following RCW 29A.08.170.
Effective date—2005 c 246: See note following RCW 10.64.140.
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
Severability—1994 c 57: See note following RCW 29A.16.040.
Effective date—1991 c 81: See note following RCW 29A.84.540.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.725 - Future voters—Disclosure of information.

RCW 29A.08.725
Future voters—Disclosure of information.
Information that is otherwise disclosable under this chapter cannot be disclosed for a future voter until the person reaches 18 years of age, or until the person is eligible to participate in the next presidential primary, primary, or election. This information is exempt from public inspection and copying under chapter 42.56 RCW. Information may be disclosed for the purpose of processing and delivering ballots.
[ 2023 c 361 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.740 - Violations of restricted use of registered voter data—Penalties—Liabilities.

RCW 29A.08.740
Violations of restricted use of registered voter data—Penalties—Liabilities.
(1) Any person who uses registered voter data furnished under RCW 29A.08.720 for the purpose of mailing or delivering any advertisement or offer for any property, establishment, organization, product, or service or for the purpose of mailing or delivering any solicitation for money, services, or anything of value is guilty of a class C felony punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional facility for a period of not more than five years or a fine of not more than ten thousand dollars or both such fine and imprisonment, and is liable to each person provided such advertisement or solicitation, without the person's consent, for the nuisance value of such person having to dispose of it, which value is herein established at five dollars for each item mailed or delivered to the person's residence. However, a person who mails or delivers any advertisement, offer, or solicitation for a political purpose is not liable under this section unless the person is liable under subsection (2) of this section. For purposes of this subsection, two or more attached papers or sheets or two or more papers that are enclosed in the same envelope or container or are folded together are one item. Merely having a mailbox or other receptacle for mail on or near the person's residence is not an indication that the person consented to receive the advertisement or solicitation. A class action may be brought to recover damages under this section, and the court may award a reasonable attorney's fee to any party recovering damages under this section.
(2) Each person furnished data under RCW 29A.08.720 shall take reasonable precautions designed to assure that the data is not used for the purpose of mailing or delivering any advertisement or offer for any property, establishment, organization, product, or service or for the purpose of mailing or delivering any solicitation for money, services, or anything of value. However, the data may be used for any political purpose. Where failure to exercise due care in carrying out this responsibility results in the data being used for such purposes, then such person is jointly and severally liable for damages under subsection (1) of this section along with any other person liable under subsection (1) of this section for the misuse of such data.
[ 2005 c 246 § 19. Prior: 2003 c 111 § 249; 2003 c 53 § 176; 1999 c 298 § 2; 1992 c 7 § 32; 1974 ex.s. c 127 § 3; 1973 1st ex.s. c 111 § 4. Formerly RCW 29.04.120.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2005 c 246: See note following RCW 10.64.140.
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.760 - Computer file—Duplicate copy—Restrictions and penalties.

RCW 29A.08.760
Computer file—Duplicate copy—Restrictions and penalties.
The secretary of state shall provide a duplicate copy of the master statewide computer file or electronic data file of registered voters to the consolidated technology services agency for purposes of creating the jury source list without cost. The information contained in a voter registration application is exempt from inclusion until the applicant reaches age eighteen. Disclosure of information on individuals under the age of 18 is subject to RCW 29A.08.725. Restrictions as to the commercial use of the information on the statewide computer data file of registered voters, and penalties for its misuse, shall be the same as provided in RCW 29A.08.720 and 29A.08.740.
[ 2023 c 361 § 9; 2018 c 109 § 12; 2011 1st sp.s. c 43 § 813; 2009 c 369 § 35; 2004 c 267 § 134; 2003 c 111 § 251; 1995 c 135 § 2. Prior: 1993 c 441 § 2; 1993 c 408 § 10; 1977 ex.s. c 226 § 1; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 46 § 3. Formerly RCW 29.04.160.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2018 c 109: See notes following RCW 29A.08.170.
Effective date—Purpose—2011 1st sp.s. c 43: See notes following RCW 43.19.003.
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
Intent—1995 c 135: "The only intent of the legislature in this act is to correct multiple amendments and delete obsolete provisions. It is not the intent of the legislature to change the substance or effect of any presently effective statute." [ 1995 c 135 § 1.]
Effective date—1993 c 441: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1993." [ 1993 c 441 § 3.]
Severability—Effective dates—1993 c 408: See notes following RCW 2.36.054.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.770 - Records concerning accuracy and currency of voters lists.

RCW 29A.08.770
Records concerning accuracy and currency of voters lists.
The secretary of state and each county auditor shall maintain for at least two years and shall make available for public inspection and copying all records concerning the implementation of programs and activities conducted for the purpose of insuring the accuracy and currency of official lists of eligible voters. These records must include lists of the names and addresses of all persons to whom notices are sent and information concerning whether or not each person has responded to the notices. These records must contain lists of all persons removed from the list of eligible voters and the reasons why the voters were removed. Disclosure of information on individuals under the age of 18 is subject to RCW 29A.08.725.
[ 2023 c 361 § 10; 2018 c 109 § 19; 2004 c 267 § 135; 2003 c 111 § 252. Prior: 1994 c 57 § 7. Formerly RCW 29.04.240.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—Effective date—2018 c 109: See notes following RCW 29A.08.170.
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
Severability—Effective date—1994 c 57: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.775 - Use and maintenance of statewide list.

RCW 29A.08.775
Use and maintenance of statewide list.
Only voters who appear on the official statewide voter registration list are eligible to participate in elections. Each county shall maintain a copy of that county's portion of the state list. The county must ensure that voter registration data used for the production, issuance, and processing of ballots in the administration of each election are the same as the official statewide voter registration list.
[ 2011 c 10 § 19; 2005 c 246 § 20; 2004 c 267 § 136.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Effective date—2005 c 246: See note following RCW 10.64.140.
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.820 - Times for filing challenges—Hearings—Treatment of challenged ballots.

RCW 29A.08.820
Times for filing challenges—Hearings—Treatment of challenged ballots.
(1) Challenges must be filed with the county auditor of the county in which the challenged voter is registered no later than 45 days before the election. The county auditor presides over the hearing.
(2) Challenges may be filed after 45 days before the election, only when the challenged voter registered to vote less than 60 days before the election, or changed residence less than 60 days before the election without updating the residence address of the voter's voter registration. A challenge may then be filed not later than 10 days before any primary or election, general or special, or within 10 days of the voter being added to the voter registration database, whichever is later.
(a) If the challenge is filed after 45 days before an election at which the challenged voter is eligible to vote, a notation of the challenge must be made immediately to the challenged voter's registration in the voter registration system, and the county canvassing board shall preside over the hearing.
(b) If the challenge is filed before the challenged voter's ballot is received, the ballot must be processed as a challenged ballot, and held until the challenge is resolved.
(c) If the challenge is filed after the challenged voter's ballot is received, the challenge cannot affect the current election. However, the process shall proceed until the challenge is resolved.
[ 2023 c 466 § 29; 2013 c 11 § 20; 2011 c 10 § 21; 2006 c 320 § 5; 2003 c 111 § 254; 1987 c 288 § 2; 1983 1st ex.s. c 30 § 3. Formerly RCW 29.10.127.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Right to vote
loss of: State Constitution Art. 6 § 3.
restoration of: RCW 9.92.066, 9.94A.637, 9.94A.885, 9.95.260, chapter 9.96 RCW.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.835 - County auditor to publish voter challenges on the internet—Ongoing notification requirements—Retention.

RCW 29A.08.835
County auditor to publish voter challenges on the internet—Ongoing notification requirements—Retention.
(1) The county auditor shall, within seventy-two hours of receipt, publish on the auditor's internet website the entire content of any voter challenge filed under chapter 29A.08 RCW. Immediately after publishing any voter challenge, the county auditor shall notify any person who requests to receive such notifications on an ongoing basis.
(2) The information on the website may be removed 45 days following certification of an election. Information related to the challenge must be maintained by the county auditor for the appropriate retention period, and is subject to disclosure upon request.
[ 2023 c 466 § 30; 2006 c 320 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.08 - Voters and Registration. › 29A.08.850 - Challenge of registration—Forms, availability.

RCW 29A.08.850
Challenge of registration—Forms, availability.
The secretary of state must provide forms for voter registration challenges, and the county auditor must make such forms available. A challenge is not required to be submitted on the provided voter challenge form, but may be prepared using an official electronic voter challenge form template provided by the auditor or secretary of state that has been printed and signed by the challenger for submission.
[ 2006 c 320 § 7; 2003 c 111 § 257; 1991 c 81 § 27; 1971 ex.s. c 202 § 35; 1965 ex.s. c 156 § 4. Formerly RCW 29.10.150.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1991 c 81: See note following RCW 29A.84.540.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.005 - "Voting system."

RCW 29A.12.005
"Voting system."
As used in this chapter, "voting system" means:
(1) The total combination of mechanical, electromechanical, or electronic equipment including, but not limited to, the software, firmware, and documentation required to program, control, and support the equipment, that is used:
(a) To define ballots;
(b) To cast and count votes;
(c) To report or display election results from the voting system;
(d) To maintain and produce any audit trail information; and
(e) To perform an audit under RCW 29A.60.185; and
(2) The practices and associated documentation used:
(a) To identify system components and versions of such components;
(b) To test the system during its development and maintenance;
(c) To maintain records of system errors and defects;
(d) To determine specific system changes to be made to a system after the initial qualification of the system; and
(e) To make available any materials to the voter such as notices, instructions, forms, or paper ballots.
[ 2018 c 218 § 5; 2013 c 11 § 21; 2004 c 267 § 601.]
NOTES:
Intent—2018 c 218: See note following RCW 29A.60.185.
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.010 - Authority for use.

RCW 29A.12.010
Authority for use.
At any primary or election in any county, votes may be cast, registered, recorded, or counted by means of voting systems that have been approved under RCW 29A.12.020.
[ 2003 c 111 § 301. Prior: 1990 c 59 § 17; 1967 ex.s. c 109 § 12; 1965 c 9 § 29.33.020; prior: (i) 1913 c 58 § 1, part; RRS § 5300, part. (ii) 1913 c 58 § 18; RRS § 5318. Formerly RCW 29.33.020.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.020 - Inspection and test by secretary of state—Report.

RCW 29A.12.020
Inspection and test by secretary of state—Report.
The secretary of state shall inspect, evaluate, and publicly test all voting systems or components of voting systems that are submitted for review under RCW 29A.12.030. The secretary of state shall determine whether the voting systems conform with all of the requirements of this title, the applicable rules adopted in accordance with this title, and with generally accepted safety requirements. The secretary of state shall transmit a copy of the report of any examination under this section, within thirty days after completing the examination, to the county auditor of each county.
[ 2003 c 111 § 302. Prior: 1990 c 59 § 18; 1982 c 40 § 1. Formerly RCW 29.33.041.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
Severability—1982 c 40: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1982 c 40 § 11.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.030 - Submitting system or component for examination.

RCW 29A.12.030
Submitting system or component for examination.
The manufacturer or distributor of a voting system or component of a voting system may submit that system or component to the secretary of state for examination under RCW 29A.12.020.
[ 2003 c 111 § 303. Prior: 1990 c 59 § 19; 1982 c 40 § 2. Formerly RCW 29.33.051.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
Severability—1982 c 40: See note following RCW 29A.12.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.040 - Independent evaluation.

RCW 29A.12.040
Independent evaluation.
(1) The secretary of state may rely on the results of independent design, engineering, and performance evaluations in the examination under RCW 29A.12.020 if the source and scope of these independent evaluations are specified by rule.
(2) The secretary of state may contract with experts in mechanical or electrical engineering or data processing to assist in examining a voting system or component. The manufacturer or distributor who has submitted a voting system for testing under RCW 29A.12.030 shall pay the secretary of state a deposit to reimburse the cost of any contract for consultation under this section and for any other unrecoverable costs associated with the examination of a voting system or component by the manufacturer or distributor who submitted the voting system or component for examination.
[ 2003 c 111 § 304. Prior: 1990 c 59 § 20; 1982 c 40 § 3. Formerly RCW 29.33.061.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
Severability—1982 c 40: See note following RCW 29A.12.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.050 - Approval required—Modification.

RCW 29A.12.050
Approval required—Modification.
If voting systems or devices or vote tallying systems are to be used for conducting a primary or election, only those that have the approval of the secretary of state or had been approved under this chapter or the former chapter 29.34 RCW before March 22, 1982, may be used. Any modification, change, or improvement to any voting system or component of a system that does not impair its accuracy, efficiency, or capacity or extend its function, may be made without reexamination or reapproval by the secretary of state under RCW 29A.12.020.
[ 2003 c 111 § 305; 1990 c 59 § 21; 1982 c 40 § 4. Formerly RCW 29.33.081.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
Severability—1982 c 40: See note following RCW 29A.12.020.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.060 - Maintenance and operation.

RCW 29A.12.060
Maintenance and operation.
The county auditor of a county in which voting systems are used is responsible for the preparation, maintenance, and operation of those systems and may employ and direct persons to perform some or all of these functions.
[ 2003 c 111 § 306. Prior: 1990 c 59 s 22; 1965 c 9 § 29.33.130; prior: 1955 c 323 § 2; prior: 1935 c 85 § 1, part; 1919 c 163 § 23, part; 1915 c 114 § 5, part; 1913 c 58 § 10, part; RRS § 5309, part. Formerly RCW 29.33.130.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.070 - Acceptance and vulnerability tests.

RCW 29A.12.070
Acceptance and vulnerability tests.
An agreement to purchase or lease a voting system or a component of a voting system is subject to that system or component passing:
(1) An acceptance test sufficient to demonstrate that the equipment is the same as that certified by the secretary of state and that the equipment is operating correctly as delivered to the county; and
(2) A vulnerability test conducted by a federal or state public entity which includes participation by local elections officials.
[ 2020 c 101 § 3; 2003 c 111 § 307. Prior: 1998 c 58 § 1; 1990 c 59 § 23. Formerly RCW 29.33.145.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2020 c 101: See note following RCW 29A.12.200.
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.080 - Requirements for approval.

RCW 29A.12.080
Requirements for approval.
No voting device shall be approved by the secretary of state unless it:
(1) Secures to the voter secrecy in the act of voting;
(2) Permits the voter to vote for any person for any office and upon any measure that he or she has the right to vote for;
(3) Correctly registers all votes cast for any and all persons and for or against any and all measures;
(4) Provides that a vote for more than one candidate cannot be cast by one single operation of the voting device or vote tally system except when voting for president and vice president of the United States; and
(5) Except for functions or capabilities unique to this state, has been tested and certified by an independent testing authority designated by the United States election assistance commission.
[ 2013 c 11 § 22; 2006 c 207 § 2; 2003 c 111 § 308. Prior: 1990 c 59 § 26; 1982 c 40 § 6; 1977 ex.s. c 361 § 66; 1971 ex.s. c 6 § 1; 1967 ex.s. c 109 § 18. Formerly RCW 29.33.300, 29.34.080.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
Severability—1982 c 40: See note following RCW 29A.12.020.
Effective date—Severability—1977 ex.s. c 361: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
Severability—1971 ex.s. c 6: "If any provision of this 1971 amendatory act, or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act, or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1971 ex.s. c 6 § 3.]
Voting devices, machines—Recording requirements: RCW 29A.12.150.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.085 - Paper record.

RCW 29A.12.085
Paper record.
Beginning on January 1, 2006, all direct recording electronic voting devices must produce a paper record of each vote that may be accepted or rejected by the voter before finalizing his or her vote. This record may not be removed from the voting center, and must be human readable without an interface and machine readable for counting purposes. If the device is programmed to display the ballot in multiple languages, the paper record produced must be printed in the language used by the voter. Rejected records must either be destroyed or marked in order to clearly identify the record as rejected. Paper records produced by direct recording electronic voting devices are subject to all the requirements of chapter 29A.60 RCW for ballot handling, preservation, reconciliation, transit, and storage. The paper records must be preserved in the same manner and for the same period of time as ballots.
[ 2011 c 10 § 22; 2005 c 242 § 1.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Preservation: RCW 29A.60.095.
Unauthorized removal from voting center: RCW 29A.84.545.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.101 - Requirements of tallying systems for approval.

RCW 29A.12.101
Requirements of tallying systems for approval.
The secretary of state shall not approve a vote tallying system unless it:
(1) Correctly counts votes on ballots on which the proper number of votes have been marked for any office or issue;
(2) Ignores votes marked for any office or issue where more than the allowable number of votes have been marked, but correctly counts the properly voted portions of the ballot;
(3) Accumulates a count of the specific number of ballots tallied for each precinct, total votes by candidate for each office, and total votes for and against each issue of the ballot in that precinct;
(4) Produces precinct and cumulative totals in printed form; and
(5) Except for functions or capabilities unique to this state, has been tested and certified by an independent testing authority designated by the United States election assistance commission.
[ 2006 c 207 § 3; 2004 c 271 § 109.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.110 - Record of programming—Devices sealed.

RCW 29A.12.110
Record of programming—Devices sealed.
In preparing a voting device for a primary or election, a record shall be made of the programming installed in each device. Except where provided by a rule adopted under RCW 29A.04.611, after being prepared for a primary or election, each device shall be sealed with a uniquely numbered seal. The programmed memory pack for each voting device must be sealed into the device during final preparation and logic and accuracy testing. Except in the case of a device breakdown or error in programming, the memory pack must remain sealed in the device until after 8:00 p.m. on the day of the primary, special election, or general election.
[ 2011 c 10 § 23; 2003 c 111 § 311; 1990 c 59 § 25. Formerly RCW 29.33.330.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.120 - Counting center personnel—Instruction, requirements.

RCW 29A.12.120
Counting center personnel—Instruction, requirements.
(1) Before each state primary or general election at which voting systems are to be used, the county auditor shall instruct all counting center personnel who will operate a voting system in the proper conduct of their voting system duties.
(2) The county auditor may waive instructional requirements for counting center personnel who have previously received instruction and who have served for a sufficient length of time to be fully qualified to perform their duties. The county auditor shall keep a record of each person who has received instruction and is qualified to serve at the subsequent primary or election.
(3) No person may operate a voting system in a counting center at a primary or election unless that person has received the required instruction and is qualified to perform his or her duties in connection with the handling and tallying of ballots for that primary or election.
[ 2013 c 11 § 23; 2011 c 10 § 24; 2003 c 111 § 312. Prior: 1990 c 59 § 29; 1977 ex.s. c 361 § 69. Formerly RCW 29.33.340, 29.34.143.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
Effective date—Severability—1977 ex.s. c 361: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.130 - Tallying systems—Programming tests.

RCW 29A.12.130
Tallying systems—Programming tests.
At least three days before each state primary or general election, the office of the secretary of state shall provide for the conduct of tests of the programming for each vote tallying system to be used at that primary or general election. The test must verify that the system will correctly count the vote cast for all candidates and on all measures appearing on the ballot at that primary or general election. The test shall verify the capability of the vote tallying system to perform all of the functions that can reasonably be expected to occur during conduct of that particular primary or election. If any error is detected, the cause shall be determined and corrected, and an errorless total shall be produced before the primary or election.
Such tests shall be observed by at least one representative from each major political party, if representatives have been appointed by the respective major political parties and are present at the test, and shall be open to candidates, the press, and the public. The county auditor and any political party observers shall certify that the test has been conducted in accordance with this section. Copies of this certification shall be retained by the secretary of state and the county auditor. All programming materials, test results, and test ballots shall be securely sealed until the day of the primary or general election.
[ 2003 c 111 § 313; 1998 c 58 § 2; 1990 c 59 § 32; 1977 ex.s. c 361 § 73. Formerly RCW 29.33.350, 29.34.163.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
Effective date—Severability—1977 ex.s. c 361: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.140 - Operating procedures.

RCW 29A.12.140
Operating procedures.
The secretary of state may publish recommended procedures for the operation of the various vote tallying systems that have been approved. These procedures allow the office of the secretary of state to restrict or define the use of approved systems in elections.
[ 2003 c 111 § 314. Prior: 1998 c 58 § 3; 1990 c 59 § 34; 1977 ex.s. c 361 § 75; 1967 ex.s. c 109 § 32. Formerly RCW 29.33.360, 29.34.170.]
NOTES:
Intent—Effective date—1990 c 59: See notes following RCW 29A.04.013.
Effective date—Severability—1977 ex.s. c 361: See notes following RCW 29A.16.040.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.150 - Recording requirements.

RCW 29A.12.150
Recording requirements.
The secretary of state shall not certify under this title any voting device or machine for use in conducting a primary or general or special election in this state unless the device or machine correctly records on a separate ballot the votes cast by each elector for any person and for or against any measure and such separate ballots are available for audit purposes after such a primary or election.
[ 2013 c 11 § 24; 2003 c 111 § 315; 1998 c 245 § 26; 1991 c 363 § 30; 1990 c 184 § 1. Formerly RCW 29.04.200.]
NOTES:
Purpose—Captions not law—1991 c 363: See notes following RCW 2.32.180.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.160 - Blind or visually impaired voter accessibility.

RCW 29A.12.160
Blind or visually impaired voter accessibility.
(1) At each voting center, at least one voting unit certified by the secretary of state shall provide access to individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
(2) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:
(a) "Accessible" includes receiving, using, selecting, and manipulating voter data and controls.
(b) "Nonvisual" includes synthesized speech, Braille, and other output methods.
(c) "Blind and visually impaired" excludes persons who are both deaf and blind.
[ 2011 c 10 § 25; 2004 c 267 § 701; 2004 c 266 § 3. Prior: 2003 c 110 § 1. Formerly RCW 29.33.305.]
NOTES:
Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.
Effective dates—2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.010.
Effective date—2004 c 266: See note following RCW 29A.04.575.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.180 - Disclosure of security breaches by manufacturer or distributor.

RCW 29A.12.180
Disclosure of security breaches by manufacturer or distributor.
(1) A manufacturer or distributor of a voting system or component of a voting system that is certified by the secretary of state under RCW 29A.12.020 shall disclose to the secretary of state and attorney general any breach of the security of its system immediately following discovery of the breach if:
(a) The breach has, or is reasonably likely to have, compromised the security, confidentiality, or integrity of an election in any state; or
(b) Personal information of residents in any state was, or is reasonably believed to have been, acquired by an unauthorized person as a result of the breach and the personal information was not secured. For purposes of this subsection, "personal information" has the meaning given in RCW 19.255.010.
(2) Notification under subsection (1) of this section must be made in the most expedient time possible and without unreasonable delay.
[ 2018 c 218 § 6.]
NOTES:
Intent—2018 c 218: See note following RCW 29A.60.185.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 29A - Elections › Chapter 29A.12 - Voting Systems. › 29A.12.190 - Decertification.

RCW 29A.12.190
Decertification.
(1) The secretary of state may decertify a voting system or any component of a voting system and withdraw authority for its future use or sale in the state if, at any time after certification, the secretary of state determines that:
(a) The system or component fails to meet the standards set forth in applicable federal guidelines;
(b) The system or component was materially misrepresented in the certification application;
(c) The applicant has installed unauthorized modifications to the certified software or hardware; or
(d) Any other reason authorized by rule adopted by the secretary of state.
(2) The secretary of state may decertify a voting system or any component of a voting system and withdraw authority for its future use or sale in the state if the manufacturer or distributor of the voting system or component thereof fails to comply with the notification requirements of RCW 29A.12.180.
[ 2018 c 218 § 7.]
NOTES:
Intent—2018 c 218: See note following RCW 29A.60.185.