Election Day Alert: What Business Owners Need to Know About Voting Time Off

As we approach the upcoming elections, it is essential for business owners to understand their obligations regarding employees’ rights to time off for voting, as specified in New York State Election Law (Section 3-110). Here’s what you need to know:

Voting Time Off:
Registered voters who do not have four consecutive hours to vote before or after their shift are entitled to up to two hours of paid time off to cast their vote.

When Employees Can Take Time Off:
Employees may take this time at the beginning or end of their working shift, as designated by you, unless other arrangements have been agreed upon.

Notification Requirements:
Employees must notify you of their need for time off to vote at least two working days but no more than ten working days prior to Election Day.

Employer Responsibilities:
You are required to post a notice regarding these provisions in a visible location for all employees at least ten working days before the election. This notice must remain posted until the polls close on Election Day.

Please review these regulations and prepare accordingly. Encouraging your employees to participate in the electoral process is vital for our democracy. If you have any questions or would like to discuss any policies related to the New York State Election Law, please contact us to discuss it further.