Law Advocate Group, LLP 
In California, employees have the right to take time off work to vote in elections if they cannot do so outside of working hours. State law ensures that workers can participate in the democratic process without fear of losing pay or facing workplace retaliation. In this blog post, we’ll explain California’s voting leave laws, employer obligations, and how employees can exercise their rights.
California Law on Time Off to Vote
California Election Code Section 14000 protects employees’ rights to take time off to vote if they do not have sufficient time before or after work.
Who Is Eligible for Voting Leave?
- Any employee who is registered to vote in California.
- Employees who do not have enough time to vote before or after work when polling places are open.
How Much Time Can Employees Take Off?
- Employees are allowed up to two hours of paid time off to vote.
- If more than two hours are needed, additional time off is permitted, but the employer is not required to pay for extra hours.
- Time off must be taken at the beginning or end of a shift, unless agreed otherwise with the employer.
Employee Responsibilities for Requesting Time Off
To use paid voting leave, employees must:
- Notify their employer at least two working days in advance of Election Day.
- Coordinate the best time with their employer to minimize business disruptions.
- Provide proof of voting if requested, though employers cannot penalize employees for using their voting leave.
Employer Obligations Under California Law
Employers must comply with state regulations by:
- Allowing up to two hours of paid voting leave when necessary.
- Posting a notice in the workplace at least 10 days before Election Day, informing employees of their rights.
- Not retaliating against employees who take time off to vote.
Alternative Voting Options for Employees
To avoid missing work, employees can also:
- Vote early – California offers early voting locations before Election Day.
- Vote by mail – Every registered voter in California receives a mail-in ballot.
- Use drop boxes – Secure ballot drop-off locations are available statewide.
California law ensures that all eligible employees can take time off work to vote without penalty. If your employer denied your voting rights or retaliated against you, Law Advocate Group, LLP can help protect your legal rights. Contact us today for expert employment law assistance.
