With the upcoming elections, now is a good time for employers to ensure they know how to properly handle time off to vote.

Oklahoma Statute 26-7-101

• Time Off To Vote: Registered voters are allowed up to two hours of time off to vote. The employer can designate a voting time for the employee. The employee must notify the employer at least one day before Election Day of the intent to be absent.
• Pay: With proof of voting, the employee is to be paid for time missed while casting a ballot.
• Time Limits: Polls are open from 7am to 7pm. If an employee's workday begins on or after 10am or ends at or before 4:00 pm, this law is not applicable to the employer.
• Consequences: Any employer who fails to comply is guilty of a misdemeanor.

Texas Statute 276.004

• Time Off To Vote: Registered voters are allowed up to two hours of time off to vote. The employer can designate a voting time for the employee. Though not required, employees are encouraged to notify the employer at least one day before Election Day of the intent to be absent.
• Pay: With proof of voting, the employee is to be paid for time missed while casting a ballot.
• Time Limits: Polls are open from 7am to 7pm. If an employee's workday begins on or after 9am or ends at or before 5:00 pm, this law is not applicable to the employer.
• Consequences: Any employer who fails to comply is guilty of a Class C misdemeanor.

Laws vary by state. For additional state laws on voting, please contact your HR Consultant at hr@nextep.com.