California Employers: Post Time-Off-For-Voting Notice by October 26

With Election Day fast approaching, California employers across the state have a key compliance task to address before November 5 – you must post a notice informing employees of their paid-time-off-to-vote rights by October 26. Posting Requirement Under California Elections Code section 14001, employers are 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 – meaning employers must have the notice up by Saturday, October 26. The notice can be displayed in the workplace or in a location visible to employees as they enter or exit the work premises. You can download a sample notice from the California Secretary of State’s website. Paid Time Off for Voting California employees are eligible for paid time off to vote if they do not have sufficient time outside of working hours to do so. You should keep in mind the following:

• Poll hours: Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on election day.
• Maximum paid time: Employees may receive up to two hours of paid time off for voting, though they are entitled to take additional unpaid time if necessary.
• Conditions: You can require the time off to be taken at the beginning or end of the employee’s shift.
• Advance notice: You may require employees to provide advance notice if they need time off to vote.

5 Steps to Compliance To stay compliant, California employers should:

1. Download or order the required notice as soon as possible.
2. Ensure the notice is posted in a visible location by October 26.
3. If you have out-of-state employees, check the time off for voting requirements in those states.
4. Inform managers and HR personnel about the company’s time-off policy for voting, including the conditions under which employees are entitled to paid time off.
5. Encourage employees to vote and remind them of their rights in advance of election day.

JorgensenHR can assist you in creating with any questions you may have on this and any HR issues. Please reach out to us at 661-600-2070 or info@jorgensenhr.com.