Maybe relevant: WA state publishes a "Voter Intent manual" to train ppl to count the votes, emphasizing that voter intent is paramount. They even have a section on "Damaged ballots" there (RCW 29A.60.125), see
https://www.sos.wa.gov/_assets/elections/administrators/2018_voter-intent_web.pdf
https://www.sos.wa.gov/_assets/elections/administrators/2018_voter-intent_web.pdf
Comments
If inspection of the ballot reveals a physically damaged ballot or ballot that may be otherwise unreadable or uncountable by the tabulating system, the county auditor may refer the ballot to the county canvassing board or duplicate the ballot..."