Five states designate Election Day as a holiday to support voting efforts

Some states have made Election Day a holiday to encourage voting. This year, Election Day is on November 5. Only five states—Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New York, and West Virginia—require employers to provide paid time off for voting. Nine additional states recognize Election Day as a holiday but do not mandate paid leave. Seventeen states allow time off for voting without designating Election Day as a holiday. California and Texas are among those that provide limited paid leave options. Banks will remain open, as Election Day is not a federal holiday. Many schools will operate normally, but some will close to serve as polling places. The U.S. Post Office will deliver mail, while some businesses are adjusting hours to help employees vote.