1. (1) (a) When a recount is requested, the requestor is responsible for the cost of the recount in accordance with chapter 29A.64 RCW.

   1. (i) Calculate recount costs separately and subtract the deposit.
   2. (ii) If additional costs are owed, bill the requestor.
   3. (iii) If deposit funds are not entirely used, refund the remaining amount.
   4. (b) If the recount changes the outcome of the election, the requestor is not responsible for the costs. Refund the requestor's deposit and bill the affected jurisdiction(s) as if it were a mandatory recount.

2. (2) For mandatory recounts, costs are billed to the affected jurisdiction(s).

   1. (a) Determine the cost of the recount and share of each jurisdiction.
   2. (b) Include the cost of the recount with the jurisdiction's share of other election costs, added as a direct cost.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 29A.04.611. WSR 26-07-033, s 434-270-070, filed 3/11/26, effective 4/11/26.]