To enact section 3501.281 of the Revised Code to prohibit adverse employment actions against employees who are absent from work while serving as, or training to be, precinct election officials.
Summary
HB 180 would add a new section to the Ohio Revised Code protecting certain employees from adverse employment actions when they miss work to serve as precinct election officials or to attend required election-official training. The bill bars employers from discharging, threatening to discharge, or disciplining a permanent employee for those absences, so long as the employee gives reasonable advance notice and is actually absent for the service or training.
The bill also prohibits employers from requiring workers to use annual, vacation, or sick leave for time spent serving or training as election officials. At the same time, it does not require employers to create or provide any new leave benefits; it only preserves whatever leave rights already exist under other laws, local rules, or employer policies.
Impact
If enacted, HB 180 would create a new employment protection in Ohio law tied to election administration service, specifically limiting employer discipline and leave requirements for permanent employees who serve as precinct election officials or complete mandatory training. It would affect employers and employees statewide, while reinforcing the state’s ability to recruit and retain poll workers by reducing workplace barriers to participation in election duties.
Sentiment
The bill appears generally supportive of civic participation and election administration, with its purpose framed as protecting workers who help run elections. Because the bill was only introduced and no committee testimony or votes are available, there is no recorded public debate in the provided materials, but the sponsorship and language suggest a favorable posture toward encouraging precinct election official service.
Contention
The main potential points of contention are likely to involve employer flexibility and leave administration. Employers may object to limits on discipline or to being unable to require use of paid leave for election-related absences, while supporters would likely emphasize that the bill is narrowly tailored by applying only to permanent employees, requiring advance notice, and covering only actual service or mandatory training.
To amend sections 3505.01 and 3505.10 of the Revised Code to modify the deadline for a political party to certify its nominees for President and Vice-President to the Secretary of State.
To amend sections 3517.12, 3517.13, and 3517.155 of the Revised Code to modify the Campaign Finance Law regarding foreign nationals and statewide initiatives and referenda and to declare an emergency.
To amend sections 3517.12, 3517.13, and 3517.155 of the Revised Code to modify the Campaign Finance Law regarding foreign nationals and statewide initiatives and referenda and to declare an emergency.
To delay the deadline for a major political party to certify its presidential and vice presidential candidates to the Secretary of State for the 2024 general election.