As early voting in Georgia has started, and as Election Day approaches on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, we would like to remind you of the University System of Georgia’s HR policy on voting leave.

The USG encourages employees to exercise their right to vote in all federal, state, and local elections.

Our updated policy complies with state law and allows employees the flexibility to request time off to vote. Eligibility: Paid voting leave is available to all regular, fully benefited employees. Up to two (2) hours of paid leave may be granted for voting in municipal, county, state, or federal elections.

Time Off Requests: Employees must provide reasonable notice to their supervisors and follow standard leave request procedures. Institutions may specify the hours during which voting leave may be taken to minimize operational disruption. Additional Time: Employees may use annual leave or compensatory time if more than two hours are needed. Voting leave is not cumulative; unused time does not carry over to future elections/years.

Flexible Scheduling: For those employees not eligible for paid voting leave, institutions should offer flexible scheduling to ensure all employees can vote within the two-hour limit.

If managers or employees have any questions regarding employee requests for time off to vote, please reach out to the HR staff for guidance.

The USG and Georgia Highlands College wants to emphasize the importance of voting and requesting this time off in advance and working with your department manager

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me or someone on the HR team.