SUPER DISTRICT 6 COMMISSIONER TED TERRY INTRODUCED THE RESOLUTION
DEKALB COUNTY, GA (Sept. 13, 2022) -– Roughly 6,000 DeKalb County employees can now receive four hours of paid time off to vote in any primary, general or run-off election, either on Election Day or to cast ballots in advance. The resolution was introduced by Super District 6 Commissioner Ted Terry back in May and received unanimous approval during Tuesday’s Board of Commissioners meeting. Commissioner Terry said introducing the VOTE resolution was an easy decision as it aims to support an increase in voter turnout.
“Our goal should always be to make sure voting is accessible to all,” Commissioner Terry said. “By giving our workers designated time off to cast their ballot, we’re eliminating an obstacle that could keep them from the polls. This resolution also expands language equity and access for future elections.”
DeKalb County joins a growing movement of local governments and businesses who have mandated time off to vote on or close to Election Day, which is not currently recognized as a federal holiday. In Georgia, DeKalb is now one of few governments that offer PTO to vote. Others include the City of Clarkston, where Commissioner Terry once served as mayor, and South Fulton County. The new policy will be in effect by Election Day, November 8, 2022.
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