Election Official Leave

A Election Official Leave policy explains when employees can take job-protected time off to serve as an appointed election official (such as a poll worker), what notice and documentation you can require, and whether the leave is paid or unpaid (including when employees may use accrued PTO), based on applicable state and local rules.

How to Write an Election Official Leave Policy

• Start with "why" and introduce the concept.
• Define who the policy covers by tying eligibility to being officially appointed to serve as an election official.
• State whether election official leave is paid or unpaid, and whether employees may use accrued time off instead.
• Explain the notice expectation for requesting election official leave.
• Describe any documentation employees must provide to support the appointment and service dates.
• Clarify any limits on using paid time off for election duties (for example, roles that may be excluded).
• Direct employees to HR with questions about eligibility, documentation, or pay options.

For advice on writing an Election Official Leave policy in a specific jurisdiction, see below.