(a) After the vote upon a ballot has been announced, the ballot shall be preserved according to one of the following methods:
- (1) String the ballots closely upon a flexible wire or cord and unite or tie securely the ends of such wire or cord.
- (2) Fasten the ballots that are counted in metal clamps or fasteners of a type which has had the prior approval of the secretary of state.
- (3) The secretary of state may prescribe any other system of preserving ballots so long as such system will maintain the ballots in good condition and secure.
- (b) Ballots marked "blank," "void" or "objected to" shall not be strung or fastened with other ballots.
L. 1968, ch. 406, § 32; April 30.