Time Off to Vote

In anticipation of Election Day 2018 (November 6), employers should review their policies and practices to ensure workers are provided time off to vote as required by applicable law and all other obligations of the business are met.

What Does the Law Say?

While there is no federal law, some state laws require employers to give workers time off to vote.  Even if your state does not have such a law, it is a good practice to let employees take paid time off to vote if there isn’t enough time for them to vote outside of working hours.

Many employees can’t vote because of jobs, child care, and other responsibilities.  Giving employees time off to vote can increase employee morale.  And, it fosters an environment that encourages employees to exercise this important right.

Employers in states with voting-leave laws should be familiar with the requirements. Besides paid leave requirements, state laws may require that employees provide notice to the employer of the employee’s intention to take time off to vote.

Review your policy to assure it is up to date and complies with state laws.

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