Texas Election Code - ELEC § 127.098. Conduct of Third Test; Void Ballot Count

(a) If the initial test conducted under Section 127.093(d) is unsuccessful, the count of ballots voted in the election obtained with the automatic tabulating equipment is void.

(b) If the initial test is successful, the automatic count of ballots voted in the election is valid for the purpose of certifying the election returns prepared at the central counting station. The presiding judge shall certify in writing that the initial test was successful and the date and hour the test was completed. The certification shall be retained with the test materials.

(c) If the ballot count is void under Subsection (a), the testing authorities shall follow the procedure prescribed by Section 127.097. When a test is successful, the ballots to be counted automatically shall immediately be counted. Immediately on completing the automatic count, the equipment shall again be tested, and if the initial test is successful the automatic count is valid for the purpose of certifying the election returns. Otherwise, the automatic ballot count is void.

(d) The procedure prescribed by Subsection (c) shall be repeated until a valid automatic count is obtained or the testing authorities determine that obtaining a valid automatic count is impracticable. In that case, the ballots shall be counted manually.