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Dear Future Employer,

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We, the Student Body Representatives of over [no. of schools] schools, are writing to you today as a generation that will soon make up the largest portion of your labor force and an important part of your customer base. On behalf [no. of students] students across the nation, we ask that you make Time Off to Vote (TOTV) a company priority. 

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[Company name] serves as a testament to the innovation and grit of the American way. an employer of many Americans, you play an influential role in the upkeep and healthy functioning of our democracy. To this end, you possess the civic responsibility of ensuring your employees have access to the polls and understand the importance of their vote.

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In recent years, several major corporations have made voting a priority, including Bank of America, Coca-Cola Company, Ford Motors, Johnson & Johnson, Levi’s, Strauss & Co., Patagonia, Paypal and Walmart. But these companies are the exceptions, not the rule. The overwhelming majority of U.S. companies do not offer their employees paid time off to cast a ballot, forcing many Americans to choose between clocking hours and exercising their civic right.

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There is nothing more American than democracy. As political polarization reaches a critical point, businesses must play a role in maintaining a healthy democracy. All voices at all levels of production are valuable in deciding who our leaders are. The workforce is the largest unifying body in the United States; therefore, it is vital to educate and support your employees on Election Day and throughout the year in exercising their right to vote.

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Despite record turnout, roughly 80 million eligible voters still failed to cast a ballot in 2024. Of those registered to vote in 2020, 13% failed to turn out because of conflicting schedules. As the 2026 election approaches, it is imperative for companies to adopt policies that empower employees to vote on Election Day.

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As student leaders, we recommend, at minimum, a policy granting each employee two hours of paid leave to vote on Election Day. Employees should also be able to use such a policy with as few hurdles as possible. We also encourage you to provide voter education and resources to help demystify the voting process for your employees.

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The business community is uniquely situated to expand voting access for millions of Americans by implementing Time Off to Vote policies, and we, as future employees, hope you take the lead in encouraging a culture of civic engagement in your firm by prioritizing voting access and voter education. 

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Sincerely,
TOTV Coalition of Student Body Representatives