A county auditor may file an exception request with the secretary of state to modify the test pattern provided in WAC 434-335-323. The county auditor must provide a description of the modification in detail, a sample test matrix, and the reasons for an exception. The exception request must be filed with the secretary of state no later than July 1st. The secretary of state must accept or reject the request in writing within thirty days. Accepted test patterns may be used in all future elections.