What are an employer’s obligations to grant employeerequests for leave to vote?
Although no federal legislation exists requiring employers to provide time off to vote, many states have enacted their own legislation. Some states prevent employers from including lunch periods as part of the voting time off permitted. However, even these states normally have some provisions alleviating the burden on the employer, such as requiring prior written requests for time off, designating when the time off will be, or stating that if the polls are open two or three hours after the work day ends, then the employer has no obligation to provide time off to vote.
North Carolina has not passed any laws requiring employers to allow employees time off to vote. However, as good employers, you want your employees to share community values and be a good citizens, of which voting is essential to. Allowing your employees anopportunity to vote will also help keep morale high. Just remember to make sure they understand which candidate supports your business and industry!
For more information please contact Guy Milhalter at (919) 277-2541 or by email!