Are election judges and poll workers exempt from completing Forms I-9?

Election judges and poll workers are considered temporarily employed by the state or local election office and are typically not classified as regular employees. The Department of Justice (DOJ) issued guidance indicating that individuals who serve as election officials on a temporary basis, such as election judges and poll workers, are not required to complete Form I-9, which verifies employment eligibility in the U.S.

This exemption is based on the nature of their role, which is often limited to specific election periods and does not entail the same employment relationship as standard jobs. Therefore, election judges and poll workers do not fall under the usual requirements for completing Form I-9, as their employment is transient and specifically tied to the electoral process. Understanding this exemption is critical for organizations involved in election management to ensure compliance with federal regulations while recognizing the unique classification of these positions.