Sec. 9-295. Improper markings of ballot. - Connecticut Statutes

      Sec. 9-295. Improper markings of ballot. If any ballot contains a greater number of names voted for any office than is provided by law, it shall render such ballot void as to such office only. If any ballot contains any mark or device other than as hereinbefore provided, so that the same may be identified in such a manner as to indicate who cast the ballot, the ballot shall not be counted, but shall be kept by the moderator and returned to the registrar of voters in a separate package from the ballots counted at such election; provided any extension of markings beyond the area in which it is marked shall not invalidate a ballot if the elector's intent is clear and if it would not serve to identify the elector.

      (1949 Rev., S. 1064; 1953, S. 772d; 1963, P.A. 223, S. 4; P.A. 07-194, S. 32.)

      History: 1963 act provided that extension of marks beyond box or circle would not invalidate a ballot where meaning clear and where it would not identify elector; P.A. 07-194 deleted provisions re folding of ballots and made conforming and technical changes.

      "Marked" ballots, see 62 C. 261; 72 C. 99; 91 C. 370; 106 C. 106. Statute does not apply to instructions of absentee voter under Sec. 9-136. 129 C. 502. Cited. 130 C. 716. No error in not counting improperly marked ballots to determine total number voting. 138 C. 545.

      A small "v" opposite the line provided for signature on absentee ballots is a device prohibited by statute. 11 CS 183.