Sec. 1.7. (a) The following provisions govern the counting of write-in votes:

(1) Except as provided in subsection (b), only votes cast for declared write-in candidates shall be counted and certified.

(2) The name of a candidate, written on the space reserved for write-in voting, is not considered a distinguishing mark that would invalidate a ballot under section 3 of this chapter. However, the name or office of a candidate written in a place on the ballot other than the place reserved for write-in voting may not be counted for that office.

(3) A write-in vote for an office is void if the voter attempts to cast the vote by a means other than printing the name of the candidate in ink or lead pencil. The use of stickers, labels, rubber stamps, or other similar device is not permitted.

(4) An abbreviation, a misspelling, or other minor variation in the form of the name of a candidate or an office shall be disregarded in determining the validity of the ballot if the intention of the voter can be ascertained.

(5) Write-in votes for each write-in candidate shall be counted separately using the tally sheets provided by the county election board.

(b) This subsection does not apply to an office for which more than one (1) individual may be nominated or elected within the same election district. A write-in vote cast for an individual whose name appears on the ballot as a candidate for that office shall be counted as a vote for the candidate.

As added by P.L.4-1991, SEC.110. Amended by P.L.3-1993, SEC.177; P.L.3-1997, SEC.338.