In an extension of worker rights, New York State is the latest to join a growing list of states providing protections for employees against employer interference with social media.
Many legal professionals argue this trend indicates a significant pendulum swing toward heightened employee protections in the realm of social media. This may necessitate a change in strategy for many corporations, with more emphasis on alternate methods of evaluating employees.
“The time is now to begin adjusting and thinking of alternative ways to evaluate employees beyond their social media presence,” says Lindsay Stone, a partner at Sheppard Mullin.
The specifics of the New York bill are still under review. Nevertheless, many anticipate that this legislation will add another layer of protection for employees who feel their social media privacy has been violated by their employers. To stay informed on the development of this legislation, refer to the original article in Corporate Counsel.
Given this evolving landscape, corporations and law firms alike need to stay updated on changes to privacy laws to ensure both their policies and practices stay within legal boundaries. As we see the legal landscape shift, it’s time to adapt and find new, innovative ways to assess employees that respect their privacy rights.