Let’s be real – creating a voting plan for Election Day doesn’t always make it to the top of the priority list. Busy work schedules can make it hard to find the time to get to the polls, but there are laws in place to that may help you overcome this obstacle. 

With election day approaching on Tuesday, consider how New York State Election Leave Law may help enable you to cast your vote for the issues you care about. 

Under the law, if you have less than four consecutive hours to visit the polls, you may be eligible for up to two hours of paid leave. If you intend to take time off to vote, you must notify your employer at least two, but no more than ten working days beforehand.  (Note: these days must be consecutive and don't include Sundays or holidays - so act fast if you need time off on Tuesday).

Employers cannot require employees to use other forms of earned leave time to vote, and must conspicuously post a notice of the law at least ten days prior to the election through to the closing of the polls. 

New York takes voting rights seriously. Violations of the Election Law are a misdemeanor, and can result in fines, imprisonment up to one year, or both. 

See you at the polls!