New Mexico Statutes Chapter 1. Elections § 1-13-8. Post-election duties; county canvass; search for missing returns

If it is necessary to open a ballot box on election night through the adjournment of the state canvass to ascertain if missing election returns are enclosed in the ballot box, the ballot box shall be opened in the presence of the presiding judge and two election judges of an election board that meets the requirements of Subsection B of Section 1-2-12 NMSA 1978 by the county clerk or a deputy clerk designated by the county clerk. The county clerk or deputy clerk may remove the missing returns necessary to canvass the election. The presiding judge and election judges shall document the search for missing returns using a form prescribed by the secretary of state.