Ask HR: Can You Take Time off to Vote in the Election?

SHRM President and Chief Executive Officer Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, answers HR questions each week.

Do you have an HR or work-related question you’d like him to answer? Submit it here.

I work 10 shifts, four days a week. This year, I’m scheduled to work on Election Day, during the bulk of polling hours. With my commute and wait times at the polls, I worry this will impact my work attendance or my ability to vote. Should employees be permitted time off to vote, or special consideration if there are local delays?  
—Kylie 

It’s commendable that you’re thinking ahead about fulfilling your civic duty while also balancing your work obligations. Though federal law does not mandate time off for voting, many states have specific laws allowing employees to take time off to vote, especially if their work schedules don’t allot sufficient time within polling hours. State laws differ in terms of how much time is allowed for voting and whether that time is paid or unpaid. Some employers may also request that the time off be taken at the beginning or end of the workday.

You should empower yourself by understanding your state’s voting laws. This knowledge will give you the confidence to communicate your concerns and explore your options with your manager. For example, some states protect employees from being penalized for taking time off to vote. Also review your company’s policy on voting and consider reaching out to your manager in advance to communicate your concerns and explore your options for adjusting your schedule, if necessary. 

Many states also offer additional voting options, such as voting by mail and early voting, which may be helpful if Election Day itself presents too many challenges with your shifts. Planning ahead ensures you can vote without impacting your work attendance.

Remember that voting is not just a right, it’s an important responsibility. With the right preparation, you can make sure both your work and civic duties are fulfilled.

I work at a barbershop. The owner told me privately he might close the shop due to rent increases. This will have a huge impact on the seven other barbers who work there. I want to share this news with them, but my boss has always been fair, and I want to maintain his trust. How should I handle this situation? —Darvin 

You’re certainly in a tough spot, balancing loyalty to your boss and concern for your colleagues. It’s understandable that you want to share the news, especially given how much this could impact everyone at the barbershop. However, honoring that trust is essential since the owner confided in you privately.

Even though the news is concerning, the situation may still be evolving. Decisions may not yet be finalized, and sharing information prematurely could cause unnecessary panic or misunderstanding. It’s best to allow the owner to communicate changes when the time is right and more concrete plans are in place.

If you feel uneasy keeping this news to yourself, you could consider having a candid, respectful conversation with the owner. Let him know that while you’ll maintain confidentiality, you’re concerned about how the potential closure will affect your co-workers. You might ask if he has plans to inform the team soon, which could provide clarity and ease your mind.

Remember that maintaining trust and professionalism in this situation is key. The owner will likely appreciate your discretion, and by letting him take the lead on communication, you can ensure that everyone is accurately informed when the time is right. This approach will reassure everyone and maintain a sense of security in the workplace.