Background: HB64 proposes adding Election Day as a state holiday in Alabama. Under this bill, Election Day—defined as the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November during presidential or gubernatorial election years—would be formally recognized as a legal public holiday. The bill ensures that state offices, public schools, and other government entities observe the holiday.
Our Position: The ACLU of Alabama supports this bill. One of the most common barriers for eligible voters is securing time away from work or other obligations to cast their ballot. Making Election Day a holiday would alleviate this burden, particularly for low-income workers and those with strict job schedules. Additionally, recognizing Election Day as a holiday would allow more people to serve as poll workers and provide transportation assistance for elderly or disabled voters, ensuring a more accessible and efficient election process. Expanding access to the ballot strengthens democracy, and this bill is a meaningful step in that direction.
