A Pennsylvania lawmaker is seeking to boost voter participation by introducing legislation that would make Election Day a legal holiday across the Commonwealth.
State Representative Greg Scott (D-54) announced his intention this week to propose a bill aimed at removing obstacles that, he says, prevent working residents from casting their ballots. In a memo to fellow lawmakers, Scott argued that demanding work schedules, long commutes, and limited free time remain significant barriers to voter turnout.
“Every vote matters in Pennsylvania, but many people are still forced to choose between their responsibilities and their right to vote,” Scott stated.
The push comes amid concerns over voter engagement in the 2024 presidential election. According to Scott, only about 73% of Pennsylvania’s voting-age population was registered to vote, and just 65% ultimately cast a ballot. Among the most commonly cited reasons for not voting, he said, were scheduling conflicts due to work or school obligations.
“It’s time to make voting easier and more accessible for Pennsylvania’s working population,” Scott said.
Under the proposed legislation, Election Day would become an official holiday for state and municipal government employees. Counties and school districts would have the option to observe the holiday, and private-sector employers would be required to provide a minimum of two hours of unpaid leave for workers who wish to vote.
“Voting is both the bedrock of our democracy and a fundamental right that nothing should stand in the way of,” Scott added.
The bill has not yet been formally introduced in the General Assembly.
