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Bill

SD 2311

An Act establishing Election Day as a holiday and providing paid voting leave

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Becca Rausch

Massachusetts would declare Election Day a paid holiday, giving workers time off to vote and removing workplace scheduling barriers to participation.

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Bill Summary · SD 2311

Legislative bill overview

SD 2311 would designate Election Day as a state holiday in Massachusetts and require employers to provide paid leave for employees to vote. The bill aims to remove workplace barriers that may prevent people from casting ballots during general elections.

Why is this important

Voting access remains a practical concern for working people, particularly those in hourly or service-sector jobs with inflexible schedules. Making Election Day a holiday could increase voter participation by eliminating scheduling conflicts and signaling that voting is a civic priority on par with other recognized holidays.

Potential points of contention

  • Business impact and costs: Employers would bear the expense of paying employees for a non-working day, affecting small businesses and essential service sectors (hospitals, utilities, retail) that typically cannot close
  • Existing accommodations: Massachusetts already provides 2 hours of paid voting time; the bill's necessity depends on whether current law is insufficiently used or enforced
  • Economic and operational effects: A statewide holiday could disrupt supply chains, services, and commerce; implementation details (which businesses are exempt, how essential services operate) are critical unknowns

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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