Time Off to Vote Act

This bill would give workers at least 2 straight hours of paid time off to vote in federal elections. You could use the time to vote, return a mail ballot in person, or do other voting-related tasks while polls or voting sites are open. Your employer can choose which hours you take, and may require you to use early voting instead of Election Day if state law allows. Breaks like lunch don’t count toward the 2 hours, but they can be taken right before or after the voting time. Taking this leave cannot cost you any benefits you’ve already earned.

Employers cannot block, punish, or retaliate against you for using this leave or for reporting a problem. The U.S. Department of Labor can investigate, and employers can be fined up to $10,000 for each violation, with factors like business size and seriousness considered. The rules apply mainly to businesses with 25 or more employees. State or local laws that offer more time or better terms still apply. The changes would start with the first federal election after the bill becomes law .

Key points

• Who is covered: Most businesses with 25+ employees; employees as defined under federal labor law.
• What changes: At least 2 consecutive hours of paid time off to vote; employer picks the timing; no loss of benefits; anti-retaliation protections; fines up to $10,000 per violation; federal enforcement by the Department of Labor .
• When: Begins with the first federal election after enactment; stronger state or local voting-leave laws still stand.