Home >> Legislative Affairs >>  Vote Now   SHRM Launches “Get Out the Vote” Campaign

The November 2, 2004 general election is an important event for human resource professionals. As an association dedicated to human resource management, SHRM does not endorse candidates or parties in any election, rather the Get out the Vote (GOTV) campaign is a part of the Society's continuing effort to be a recognized leader in workplace public policy. Issues such as access to and cost of health care, workplace flexibility, and employee benefits will be impacted by the outcome of this election. As an HR professional, and one of over 185,000 members of SHRM, you have the opportunity to vote and have your voice heard through the ballot box. Below is a list of links that will help define the issues and candidates that will be on the ballot in your district, as well as a state-by-state layout of voter registration dates and absentee ballot information.

It is SHRM's belief that how you vote is not as important as taking the time to vote and participate in the election process. In today's political climate, active involvement is as important as ever. There were numerous state and local elections that were won by a small amount of votes. The 2000 general election in the state of Florida was the most vivid example, but there have been many other instances nationwide. Do not let your opportunity to exercise your right to vote pass you by this November.

Voter Reference Links:

• For complete listing of voter information links please visit the SHRM Get out the Vote campaign website.

• The SHRM Information Center has created an Express Request tool, which will provide resources on state voting leave laws and sample voting leave policies. To receive these online resources, enter key word "VOTE" to complete the form.

• SHRM is taking an active role in providing education resources on issues important to our membership. SHRM, in association with the Savings Coalition of America, conducted educational events at both the Democratic National Convention (DNC) and Republican National Convention (RNC). The goal of these events was to heighten public awareness on the need to save and plan for retirement. These events showcased SHRM as a national leader on financial education issues.

• SHRM produced ads in Roll Call magazine during both the DNC and RNC conventions, in order to increase the visibility of the Society's role as a contributor of valuable election information.

• In addition to the DNC and RNC events, SHRM has provided resources on your State Election Day Leave Laws and a State by State Election calendar with a breakdown of your state's voter registration deadlines and absentee balloting information.

Action Needed

It is not too late to register to vote! Fill out the National Voter Registration Form provided by the Federal Election Commission and linked to on the SHRM Get out the Vote resources page. Also, if you know in advance that you will not be able to get to the polls on November 2; do not let that stop your voice from being heard. Absentee voting is easy! For additional information, please visit http://www.shrm.org/government/gotv/ .