Washington, D.C. 20530
October 26, 2000
MEMORANDUM FOR BUREAU PERSONNEL OFFICERS
FROM: Joanne W. SimmsSUBJECT: Policy on Excused Absence for Voting
As Election Day nears, we would like to take the opportunity to emphasize the policy for granting excused absence to employees to exercise their right to vote. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has issued the attached memorandum concerning this matter. The Department concurs with the policy set by OPM. Our policy is detailed in DOJ Order 1630.1B (Available on the DOJ Intranet), "Leave Administration," dated July 22, 1991.
Generally, agencies have discretionary authority to grant excused absence for voting to employees. However, excused absence for this purpose should rarely be needed. Polling places throughout the United States are open for extended hours on Election Day. When necessary, excused absence should be granted which requires the least amount of time off.
Employees with specific questions concerning this matter should be directed to their servicing personnel office. Members of your staff who have questions about the policy may contact Margaret Foskey, of the Personnel Staff's Policy Group, for assistance. Ms. Foskey may be reached on (202) 514-6778, or via e-mail at Margaret.Foskey2@usdoj.gov.