Texas House Bill HB1777

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to prohibiting an employer from accessing the personal online accounts of employees and job applicants through electronic communication devices; establishing an unlawful employment practice.

Impact

The impact of HB 1777 is primarily on statutes related to labor and employment, imposing restrictions on employers regarding the privacy of their employees' online accounts. It explicitly outlines the types of accounts considered personal and protected, effectively limiting the conditions under which an employer can access such information. This aligns state laws more closely with contemporary understandings of personal privacy rights in the digital age, making it clear that personal communication and social media accounts are off-limits for employer scrutiny unless specifically consented to by the employee under a written agreement.

Summary

House Bill 1777 seeks to prohibit employers from accessing the personal online accounts of employees and job applicants. This legislation amends the Labor Code to classify such unauthorized access or requests for usernames and passwords as unlawful employment practices. By establishing guidelines around the handling of personal online accounts, the bill aims to enhance protections for personal privacy in the context of employment, addressing growing concerns over employers' rights to access personal information.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1777 has generally been favorable among privacy advocates and employees, who view the bill as a necessary measure to protect against potential invasions of personal privacy. Supporters argue that in an era of increasing digital surveillance, employees should have a clear right to privacy that extends to their online presence. Conversely, some employers have expressed concerns regarding the bill, citing potential complications in recruitment processes and difficulties in ensuring that employees meet company standards without the ability to monitor their online personas.

Contention

Notable points of contention within debates around HB 1777 include the balance between employer oversight and employee privacy. Critics of the bill worry it could limit employers' ability to perform due diligence during the hiring process, potentially allowing individuals with questionable backgrounds to slip through the cracks. Furthermore, there is concern about the carve-outs for employers in financial services, which may lead to disparities in privacy protections across different sectors. The emphasis on personal online account protection raises important discussions about employer responsibilities versus employee rights in maintaining a respectful workplace environment.