General Provisions

950 CMR 50.01 applies to 950 CMR 50.00 through 54.00. (1) Definitions. Terms shall have the meanings provided in M.G.L. c. 50, § 1. In addition: Electronic voting system means anysystemfor casting or counting ballots which uses electrical or electronic tabulating equipment, or which uses special marking inks or punch card devices in the marking of ballots. Secretary means the state secretary. Voting machine means any mechanical or automatic device for casting and counting votes which is not part of an electronic voting system. (2) Application. 950 CMR 50.01 through 50.06 apply to all primaries, preliminary elections, and elections, referred to collectively as "elections", except to the extent provided otherwise. 950 CMR 52.00 applies where paper ballots are used; 950 CMR 53.00 where voting machines are used; and 950 CMR 54.00 where electronic voting systems are used. (3) Effective Date. 950 CMR 50.01 through 50.06 are effective as soon as publication occurs in the Massachusetts Register, under M.G.L. c. 30A, § 6. (4) Amendment. These chapters may be amended at any time in the manner provided by law. Any interested person may petition the Secretary requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation, under M.G.L. c. 30A, § 4. This petition shall be considered by the Secretary within 30 days after filing. (5) Authority. These chapters are promulgated under authority of M.G.L. c. 54, § 37.