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Time off to Vote

In a healthy democracy, every citizen's voice matters, and the ability to cast a ballot is fundamental. Here in Alberta, the Election Act recognizes this importance and includes provisions to ensure that work schedules don't prevent you from exercising your right to vote. As an employee, it's crucial to understand your entitlements regarding time off for elections. 


Let's break down what you need to know.


The Three-Hour Window: Your Basic Entitlement

The cornerstone of the legislation is the requirement for electors to have three consecutive, non-work hours to vote. This window can fall on any of the advance voting days or on Election Day itself.


When Your Schedule Doesn't Cooperate: Employer Responsibility

Life isn't always a 9-to-5 affair, and many work schedules don't naturally provide this three-hour gap. This is where the Election Act steps in. If your work hours don't allow for that uninterrupted three-hour voting period, your employer is legally obligated to provide you with extra time off.


Employer Flexibility, Employee Rights

While your employer must grant you this extra time, they retain the right to decide when you take it. This could be on any of the advance voting days or on Election Day. They will likely consider what works best for their operations while still ensuring you have the necessary time to vote.


Important Considerations:

  • Paid Time Off: When your employer provides this extra time for voting, it must be paid. You should not experience any loss of wages for exercising your civic duty.

  • No Penalties: Furthermore, your employer cannot impose any penalties on you for taking this legally mandated time off.

  • Voting Only: It's important to remember that this extra time is specifically for the purpose of voting.

  • Already Voted? No Extra Time: If you've already cast your ballot, whether during an earlier advance voting opportunity or via Special Ballot, you are not eligible for additional time off on subsequent voting days.


 
 
 

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