With the Federal Election happing on April 28^th, there are some important regulations that employers should be aware of.

An employee who is eligible to vote is entitled to three consecutive hours free from work to vote during advance voting or on Final Voting Day. Voting hours during advance voting are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. local time and on Final Voting Day are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST for BC.

This does not necessarily mean three hours off work. It means that there must be a three-hour period free from work during voting hours. Time off may be at the beginning or end of an employee’s shift, or unnecessary if normal working hours already provide enough time free from work to vote.

You cannot deduct employees pay or penalizes them for taking time off to vote. They are entitled to regular compensation for any hours scheduled but not worked during this time.

Failure to comply with the Elections Act may result in a fine of up to $10,000 or imprisonment for up to a year.

Exceptions

There are exceptions to the general rules outlined above. Such as:

Voters in remote areas where they would not reach a voting place during voting hours.
Employees in the transportation industry

Connect with your HR Consultant or use the email address below for more information or clarification.

hr@agsafebc.ca