I’ve been lucky enough to generally have positions that encompassed an 8-5 workday.  I have always been able to vote before or after work, or even during my lunch hour.  I’m sure living in a more rural area helps speed things along too.  I wondered about those who are not in similar situations.  So I took my curiosity to SHRM. 

I found that most states have their own rules on time off for voting, and the implications on pay and leave time.  Here are the State Voting Leave Laws I found on SHRM (you do have to be a member to access them). 

If you’re not sure, take a few minutes to see if your state has any laws about time off for voting, especially if you have a staff that might work off times or for longer hours.  HR should keep safety concerns in mind.  Some might be up hours earlier than usual to wait in line and vote, and then work a ten hour night shift. 

Consider some feasible options to help them out, even if it’s just a Box of Joe from Dunkin Donuts. 

Erica L.

Originally published at http://uecubenefit.uecu.org/