Have workers in California?
Employers Must Post a “Paid Time Off for Voting” Notice by Oct. 26
Under California Elections Code Section 14001, employers who have staff that work in California are legally required to post a notice to employees that explains their rights to take time off for voting.
This notice must be posted at least 10 days before a statewide election [a date that coincides with November 5, National Election Day.] This means employers must have the notice up by Saturday, Oct. 26. The notice must be displayed in the workplace or at a location visible to employees as they enter or exit the work premises.
Download the Notice or Order a Poster
Employers can download a sample notice from the California Secretary of State’s website or call the Elections Division at 916-657-2166 to order posters.
Paid Time Off for Voting Rights
California employees are eligible for paid time off to vote if they do not have sufficient time outside of working hours to vote. Employees may receive up to two hours of paid time off for voting, though they are entitled to take additional unpaid time off if necessary.
California employers need to inform supervisors, company management or their HR staff about the company’s time-off policy for voting, including the conditions under which employees are legally entitled to paid time off.
- PTO Timing: Employers can require that the time off be taken at the beginning or end of employees’ shifts.
- Advance notice: Employers may require employees to provide advance notice if they need time off to vote.
- California poll hours: Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day, November 5, 2024.