(1) Each county shall produce a test deck of ballots to be used in the official logic and accuracy test to verify that the vote tabulating system is programmed to correctly count the ballots.
(2) The pattern to mark the test deck shall begin by giving the first candidate in each race one vote, the second candidate in each race two votes, the third candidate in each race three votes, etc. Once the pattern is completed for each race and issue, each remaining precinct or ballot style must be tested by using a minimum of one ballot that has a first choice marked for each race and issue. Additional votes may be added to ensure all responses for a race or issue have unique results. Another pattern may be used if it meets the requirements outlined in this section and is approved by the secretary prior to marking the test deck.
(3) The test deck must also test that the vote tabulating system is programmed to accurately count write-in votes, overvotes and blank ballots. The test deck must also include a sampling of all ballots that will be used during the election, including ballot on demand, alternative language ballots, and ballots marked with an electronic ballot marker.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 29A.04.611. 08-15-052, § 434-335-445, filed 7/11/08, effective 8/11/08; 08-05-120, § 434-335-445, filed 2/19/08, effective 3/21/08; 06-14-048, § 434-335-445, filed 6/28/06, effective 7/29/06.]