Election Day As County Holiday?
Gov Employees in Prince George’s May Get Day Off To Vote
Prince George’s may soon join a growing national movement aimed at removing barriers to civic participation, as County Council Member Wala Blegay introduced legislation that would make General Election Day an official county holiday for government employees.
The proposal, known as CB-39-2026, was introduced May 4 and seeks to give county employees the day off during General Elections so they can more easily cast their ballots and participate in the democratic process. The legislation would apply only to General Elections and would not affect Primary or Special Elections.
The measure arrives at a time when civic leaders across the nation continue searching for ways to increase voter participation, particularly in communities where demanding work schedules, transportation challenges, and long polling place lines can discourage turnout. In Prince George’s County, voter engagement statistics from the 2024 Presidential General Election revealed both promise and concern. While tens of thousands of residents participated, county turnout reached 66.35 percent — the second-lowest rate in Maryland — with just 21 percent of registered voters casting ballots in person.
Blegay framed the legislation as both a practical and symbolic effort to strengthen civic engagement in one of Maryland’s largest and most politically influential jurisdictions.
“I want to ensure all Prince George’s County employees have the opportunity to fulfill their constitutional right of voting,” Blegay said in announcing the bill. “Election Day is one of the most important days of the year in our country, serving as an opportunity for Americans to make their voices heard.”
Supporters of similar initiatives nationwide have argued that treating Election Day as a civic holiday elevates the importance of voting while encouraging broader public participation. Advocates also note that local governments play a powerful role in setting the tone for democratic engagement and public service.
If adopted, the legislation would position Prince George’s County as one of the few jurisdictions in the region to formally recognize Election Day as a government holiday — a move supporters hope could inspire stronger voter participation for years to come.
