2015 New Mexico Statutes
Chapter 3 - Municipalities
Section 8 Municipal Elections
Section 3-8-16 Paper ballots in lieu of voting machines; form; general requirements.

3-8-16. Paper ballots in lieu of voting machines; form; general requirements.

As used in this section, "paper ballots" means paper ballots used in lieu of voting machines. Paper ballots shall be in the form prescribed by the municipal clerk, which shall conform to the following rules:

A. paper ballots shall:

(1) be numbered consecutively beginning with number one. The number shall be printed with a perforated line appropriately placed so that the portion of the ballot bearing the number may be readily and easily detached from the ballot;

(2) be uniform in size;

(3) be printed on good quality paper;

(4) be printed in plain black type;

(5) have all words and phrases printed correctly and in their proper places; and

(6) have district and precinct, if applicable;

B. the following heading shall be printed on each paper ballot used in all municipal elections:

"OFFICIAL ELECTION BALLOT

Election held . . . . . . . . . . (insert date)";

C. if the election is a regular municipal election, the paper ballot shall be prepared consistent with the requirements of Section 3-8-29 NMSA 1978. In addition, next to each candidate's name shall appear an empty box to be used when voting for that candidate. Where space is allowed on a paper ballot for entering the name of a declared write-in candidate, that space shall be clearly designated by the use of the heading "Write-in Candidate". Below the heading shall appear one line, with a box to the right of the line, for each individual office holder to be elected. Below the last candidate's name shall appear any question presented, in the order designated by the governing body;

D. if the election is a special municipal election, questions presented shall be placed on the paper ballot in the order designated by the governing body;

E. next to each question presented on a paper ballot shall appear two empty boxes, one labeled "FOR" and the other labeled "AGAINST"; and

F. at the bottom of all paper ballots shall be printed: "OFFICIAL ELECTION BALLOT", followed by a facsimile signature of the municipal clerk.

History: 1978 Comp., 3-8-16, enacted by Laws 1985, ch. 208, 24; 1997, ch. 266, 7; 2009, ch. 278, 5.