Election Time! What Do Employers Need To Know?

Election Day is quickly approaching and eligible voters who haven't already cast their ballot by mail or at advance voting stations will be heading to the polls on April 28, 2025. Consider this to be a friendly reminder that the Canada Elections Act (the "Act") provides certain obligations for employers with respect to the federal election – specifically to provide eligible employees with paid time off to vote.

Time off to Vote

Pursuant to section 132 of the Act, on Election Day employees are entitled to three consecutive hours during which the polls are open in order to vote. This does not mean that every employee is automatically entitled to three paid hours off on Election Day – the requirement is only triggered in circumstances where the employee's scheduled working hours conflict with voting hours such that the employee does not have three consecutive hours available in which to vote. If an employee has already voted either by mail or in advance polls, they