R 168.108 Clerk verification of voter identity on electronically returned ballots; processing of electronically returned ballots.

Rule 8. (1) The clerk shall comply with absent voter ballot return timelines and procedures set forth by sections 765 and 765a of the act, MCL 168.765 and 168.765a, as much as practicable, and do a final check for returned ballots in the portal at 8 p.m. on Election Day. (2) The electronic return identity verification on the certification included with an electronically returned ballot is substituted for the signature on an absent voter ballot return envelope. (3) The clerk shall examine the electronic return identity verification included on the certification and verify that the electronic return identity verification matches the electronic return identity verification on the voter’s absent voter ballot application or other record as provided under R 168.105(1)(c). (4) If the electronic return identity verification does not match, the clerk shall reject the ballot, notify the voter, and provide instructions on how to cure, following as near as is practicable the provisions of section 766a of the act, MCL 168.766a. (5) If the electronic return identity verification is verified by matching it to the electronic return identity verification submitted on the voter’s absent voter ballot application or other record on file in the clerk’s office, the clerk shall accept the ballot. (6) Accepted ballots must be tabulated as provided under section 759a(7) of the act, MCL 168.759a. (7) Normal ballot storage and retention procedures apply.