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Senate panel declines bill requiring employers to give paid time off to vote
Summary
A proposal to require employers to give employees paid time off to vote when polls are not open outside working hours (SB 473) failed in the committee after lawmakers raised enforcement and small‑business burden concerns despite testimony from voting advocates.
Senate Bill 473, sponsored by Senator Gary Carter, would have required employers to allow employees time off without reduction in compensation to vote when polls are not open outside regular work hours. The committee debated the measure on April 22 and ultimately kept the bill in committee after a roll call vote.
Cree Matlock of the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice testified in support, emphasizing that lost wages or workplace penalties are structural barriers that depress turnout for workers with nonstandard shifts. “If we are serious about increasing voter participation, we must address barriers that prevent people from voting,” Matlock told the committee.
Lawmakers raised enforcement issues and concerns about the impact on small, family‑owned businesses that rely on employees during key hours. Senator Miller and others said they support increased turnout but questioned how to prevent abuse and how the policy would be enforced. Senator Carter acknowledged the concerns and said he would work on narrowing language and enforcement mechanics if the bill moves forward.
The committee recorded a 2‑5 vote against reporting SB 473, so the bill remains in committee.
