Empower Employees to Cast Their Ballots

With the upcoming election, it’s important for businesses to ensure that their employees have the opportunity to cast their ballots, either during the early voting period or on Election Day. This not only shows support for democracy and civic engagement but also helps create a positive work culture where employees feel valued and empowered.

Inform Your Employees About Key Election Dates and Times

There is a lot of important information regarding times and dates leading up to the 2024 election that your employees should be aware of, including:

Registration deadlines: In Michigan, individuals can register at any time up to 8 p.m. on Election Day at their city or township clerk’s office. If registering another way than in person with your city or township clerk, a voter registration application must be received or postmarked at least 15 days before the election.
Returning absentee ballots: Voters must return their ballot to a drop box in their own city or township. Ballots dropped in the incorrect drop boxes may not be counted.
Early voting period: Early voting is available for all state and federal elections for nine days before an election, ending the Sunday before Election Day. Cities and townships may offer additional early voting beyond this period.
Polling place hours: On Election Day, polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and anyone in line by 8 p.m. has the right to vote.

Election Dates

Absentee Voter Ballots Available: Sept. 26
General Election Early Voting Period: Oct. 26 to Nov. 3
General Election Day: Nov. 5

Encouraging your employees to mark these dates on their calendars and plan ahead can help ensure they have ample time to cast their ballots without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Ensure Employees Have the Time to Vote

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the most commonly reported reason for not voting is being too busy or having a conflicting work or school schedule. However, with nine days of early voting, same-day voter registration, drop boxes in every community, and expanded absentee ballot access, individuals have more opportunities than ever to cast their ballots in the 2024 election. As an employer, providing this information and supporting your employees in exercising their right to vote is crucial.

Here are some ways your business can support your employees by eliminating time barriers:

1. Communicate about company policies.: Make sure your employees are aware of any company policies regarding voting, such as paid time off, working from home, or flexible scheduling options. Be clear about how these policies will be implemented and encourage employees to plan ahead to cast their ballot.

2. Encourage early or absentee voting.: Remind employees that they have the option to vote early or request an absentee ballot. This can be a great alternative for those who may have difficulty getting to the polls on Election Day. Consider offering assistance to those who may not be familiar with these processes and providing information about applications, polling places, and voting times so that employees feel empowered and informed when they are ready to cast their ballot.

3. Offer transportation assistance.: If possible, provide transportation options for employees who may not have reliable means of getting to their polling place. This could include organizing a group carpool or reimbursing for public transportation expenses.