Election Day An Ohio Holiday? New Legislation Would Make It So

COLUMBUS, OH — Two state lawmakers have introduced a proposal to make Election Day a paid state holiday for Ohio workers. The legislation will be introduced by State Reps. Erica Crawley and Bride Rose Sweeney, Democrats from Columbus and Cleveland, respectively.

“Giving people an equal opportunity to vote shouldn’t be a partisan issue. Most Ohioans still prefer to vote on Election Day itself, and this legislation would help working families overcome weekday barriers to the ballot box,” said Rep. Sweeney. “Lawmakers have a responsibility to make it easier, not harder, for Ohioans to vote. We must do everything in our power to lift low voter turnout – especially in non-presidential years – if we are to maintain the integrity of our democracy.”

Current Ohio law allows workers to have a "reasonable" time off to vote. However, employers do not have to pay their employees for voting leave time. The majority of Americans support making Election Day a holiday, according to research by Pew.

Tuesday was originally selected as the nation's voting day because of its convenience to 19th century Americans, the Washington Post reported. Over time, Tuesday became a routine part of the workday, making it more of an obstacle to voters.

“The right to vote is our most fundamental freedom, one that should be easy and accessible for every eligible Ohio voter,” said Crawley. “By making Election Day a state holiday, we will increase voter participation and ensure every voter has the opportunity to make their voices heard and have their vote counted.”

The national government has also mulled making Election Day a national, federal holiday. However, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell called the idea a "power grab" by Democrats.