State of Utah Enacts Social Media Password Law – Effective May 14, 2013
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APPLIES TO Utah Employers |
EFFECTIVE March 14, 2013 |
QUESTIONS? Contact HR On-Call (888) 378-2456 |
On May 14, 2013, the Internet Employment Privacy Act (IEPA) becomes law in the state of Utah. This law prohibits employers from requiring employees or job applicants to disclose their password(s) or user name(s) for personal social media accounts. Utah joins the states of California, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, and New Jersey who have enacted similar legislation.
The IEPA does not prohibit employers from viewing information on social media websites that can be obtained without a user name or password. Additionally, the employer is not prohibited from requesting or requiring employees to disclose their user name(s) and password(s) in order to gain access to electronic communication devices provided by the company or an account or services provided by and used for the employer’s business.
Action Items:
- Review your employee handbook to ensure compliance with your state’s Social Media Password law and provide training to managers who are responsible for hiring employees in all affected States.
Disclaimer: This document is designed to provide general information and guidance concerning employment-related issues. It is presented with the understanding that ManagEase is not engaged in rendering any legal opinions. If a legal opinion is needed, please contact the services of your own legal adviser.
© 2013 ManagEase, Incorporated.
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