If GA 21-2-408 is the entirety of the law governing poll watcher it does not mention what happens if poll watchers are not present to observe votes that are counted. However, there may be another section of GA law that governs the counting of ballots in regards to poll watchers.
I think common sense would indicate that if there are poll watchers for that precinct then good practice would indicate they should be present for all ballot counting activities. All reasonable efforts should be made to include them and if they are not included for whatever reason all activities without them should be documented to provide for a clear auditable record of events that take place.
I think common sense would indicate that if there are poll watchers for that precinct then good practice would indicate they should be present for all ballot counting activities. All reasonable efforts should be made to include them and if they are not included for whatever reason all activities without them should be documented to provide for a clear auditable record of events that take place.