Election Day in the US: What’s open, what’s closed?

As millions of Americans head to polling stations for Election Day on November 5, 2024, many may also wonder which services, schools, and businesses remain open.

Although Election Day is widely observed in various capacities, it’s not a federal holiday, leaving some services open while others close depending on state and local policies.

We take a look at what’s open and what’s not in the US today:

Banks and Postal services remain open

Since Election Day is not a federal holiday, banks such as Wells Fargo and Citi, along with ATMs, will be open for business as usual.

The Federal Reserve and stock markets, including the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, will also remain operational. The next scheduled stock market holiday will be Thanksgiving.

Postal services, including the US Postal Service (USPS), UPS, and FedEx, will also function as usual. The USPS will not only operate regular hours but also ensure mail-in ballots are delivered, despite recommending that voters mail ballots by October 29 to avoid delays.

UPS and FedEx will also provide standard pickup and delivery services.

Government offices: Open or Closed depending on the state

Federal offices, including federal courts, remain open on Election Day. However, state and local government offices vary widely depending on the state.

In states such as Delaware, Illinois, New Jersey, Virginia, and West Virginia, Election Day is a public holiday, which means state offices, including DMV locations, are closed. Additionally, some cities, such as New York City, close municipal offices and state and city courts.

In total, 19 states and Puerto Rico recognise Election Day as a civic holiday, though not all mandate office closures.

Other states observing Election Day as a public holiday include Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

In five states — Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New York, and West Virginia — employers are required by law to provide paid time off to vote, reflecting efforts to support civic participation.

Mixed school closures for safety and polling

Schools often close on Election Day due to safety concerns, as many serve as polling stations. “In many cases, schools close for safety concerns,” states the National School Safety and Security Services, an organisation specialising in school safety.

Parents should expect school closures or alternative arrangements, such as e-learning, though some districts remain open. This variance creates potential childcare issues, as families must navigate altered school schedules on Election Day.

Also Read: What happens if there is no clear winner?

States that recognise Election Day as a public holiday typically close public schools, and this approach has become increasingly common across the country.

Educational institutions in states such as Indiana, New Jersey, and Virginia will be closed, reflecting the significant role schools play as polling locations.

Retailers stay open with potential adjusted hours

Election Day will not impact major retailers or grocery stores, which will remain open for regular or adjusted hours. Shoppers can expect stores like Walmart, Target, and Costco to operate as usual.

Some stores may alter their hours to accommodate employees who wish to vote. For instance, Bath & Body Works will delay opening until noon on Election Day to support employees participating in the voting process.

Bars and Liquor stores: Open nationwide after historic changes

Bars and liquor stores are open on Election Day, although this wasn’t always the case in certain states. South Carolina was the last state to repeal its Election Day ban on alcohol sales in 2014.

This prohibition, dating back to at least 1882, was originally designed to curb corruption, as politicians allegedly used free drinks to sway voters.

According to the New York Times, Election Day bans on alcohol sales were once common in the US because of fears that politicians would buy votes by providing drinks.

Here’s all you have to remember:

Whether you need to send a package, shop, or vote, here’s what to remember:

2. Banks, USPS, and Stock markets: All remain open with normal operating hours.

3. Government offices: Federal offices stay open, while state offices close in 19 states observing Election Day as a holiday.

4. Schools: Expect mixed closures, especially in states where schools serve as polling sites.

5. Retail and Liquor stores: Generally open, with some stores adjusting hours to support voting.

With millions expected to turn out, Election Day 2024 will see essential services operating to accommodate voters and non-voters alike across the country.

Also Read: When will we know the final results?

With inputs from agencies