County auditors must request that observers be appointed by the major political parties to be present during the processing of ballots at the counting center. County auditors have discretion to also request that observers be appointed by any campaigns or organizations. The absence of the observers will not prevent the processing of ballots if the county auditor has requested their presence. Observers may not touch any ballots, ballot materials, or election systems. Unauthorized physical contact, or access to ballots or election systems[,] is a crime subject to punishment under chapter 29A.84 RCW.

Notice to registered poll voters—Elections by mail—2011 c 10: See note following RCW 29A.04.008.