Employees will have a half day of paid time off and mandatory “no meeting” day
Philadelphia, PA — November 3, 2020 — Independence Blue Cross (Independence) announced last month that the company will provide employees with a half day of paid time off in order to vote on November 3. The company will also recognize Election Day in 2020 as a mandatory “no meetings day” across the organization. These steps are to support employees as they exercise their right to vote under the unique circumstances of the pandemic.
“Political participation is a cornerstone of American democracy — the voices, the votes, and the opinions of our employees matter,” explained Independence President and CEO Dan Hilferty. “Like so much else this year, Election Day presents additional challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Independence is encouraging our employees to exercise their right to vote and giving them the flexibility they need to take part in this important process.”
Independence also developed an internal non-partisan website where employees can find their polling place, research where candidates and elected officials stand on important issues, and learn more about important election deadlines. The company also held a virtual seminar to help employees become more knowledgeable about the political process. Independence is in no way influencing employees how to vote, but the company is working to ensure that employees are informed about electoral procedures and deadlines and encouraging them to cast their ballot.