Sec. 11. (a) This section applies to the determination of the validity of a signature on a document required for a petition and remonstrance procedure under this chapter.

     (b) If:

(1) the validity of a signature is uncertain; and

(2) this section does not establish a standard to be applied in that case;

a reasonable doubt must be resolved in favor of the validity of the signature.

     (c) Whenever the name of an individual, as printed or signed, contains a minor variation from the name of the individual as set forth in the relevant county records, the signature is considered valid.

     (d) Whenever the residence address or mailing address of an individual contains a minor variation from the residence address or mailing address as set forth in the relevant county records, the signature is considered valid.

     (e) Notwithstanding subsection (c) or (d), if the residence address or mailing address of an individual contains a substantial variation from the residence address or mailing address as set forth in the relevant county records, the signature is considered invalid.

     (f) If the signature of an individual does not substantially conform with the signature of the individual in the relevant county records, the signature is considered invalid. In determining whether a signature substantially conforms with an individual’s in the relevant county records, consideration shall be given to whether that lack of conformity may reasonably be attributed to the age, disability, or impairment of the individual.

As added by P.L.162-2006, SEC.6.