If no contest shall be filed by 5:00 p.m. Friday next following an election, the county election boards and State Election Board shall declare the result of such election and shall issue the appropriate lists or certificates to the successful party as provided by law. Provided, however, that no such lists or certificates shall be issued until the total of all returns has been verified, and a complete tabulation thereof made.
Laws 1974, c. 153, § 8-108, operative Jan. 1, 1975.