Colorado § 1-13.5-609 - Counting paper ballots.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 1-13.5-609 — Counting paper ballots., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 1-13.5-609. Counting paper ballots.
(1) As soon as the polls at any election are finally closed, the election judges shall immediately open the ballot box and proceed to count the votes cast, and, before the election judges adjourn, the counting thereof shall continue until finished. The election judges shall first count the number of ballots in the box. If the ballots are found to exceed the number of names entered on the pollbook, the election judges shall then examine the official endorsements upon the ballots, and if, in the unanimous opinion of the judges, any of the ballots in excess of the number on the pollbook do not bear the proper official endorsement, they shall be put into a separate pile, and a separate record and return of the votes in such ballots shall be made under the heading "excess ballots". When the ballots and the pollbook agree, the election judges shall proceed to count the votes. Each ballot shall be read and counted separately, and every name separately marked as voted for on such ballot where there is no conflict to obscure the intention of the voter, and shall be read and marked upon the tally sheets before proceeding to any other ballot. Each ballot, excepting excess ballots, shall be read and counted and placed upon the tally sheets in like manner.
(2) When all the votes have been read and counted, the ballots, together with one of the tally lists, shall be placed in a box or appropriate container, and the opening shall be carefully sealed, and each of the election judges shall place his or her initials on said seal. The sealed box shall be delivered to the designated election official pursuant to section 1-13.5-614.
(3) All persons, except election judges and watchers, are excluded from the place where the counting is being carried on until the count has been completed.
Source: L. 2014: Entire article added, (HB 14-1164), ch. 2, p. 26, § 6, effective February 18.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 1-13.5-609
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 1-13.5-609 cover?
Section 1-13.5-609 ("Counting paper ballots.") is part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Colorado. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Colorado § 1-13.5-609?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 1-13.5-609" (Colorado). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Colorado law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Colorado official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Colorado attorney.
How does Colorado § 1-13.5-609 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Colorado can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.