In my online column for Business West last month, I wondered whether Massachusetts lawmakers might enact a law in 2015 that would prohibit employers from perusing a job applicant’s online writings unless those writings are in the public domain (i.e. not subject to copyright). If the proposed bill became law an employer could not lawfully look at an applicant’s blog without the applicant’s express prior permission. To find out why this is even a possibility, scroll down to the third item, titled “State Level Developments.”
With the next session of the Legislature poised for kick-off, it is time to do more than wonder. After reviewing the newly-filed bills I shall post an update, so stay tuned.
If you are curious about when, if ever, a social-media diatribe can serve as the basis for terminating employment, you might want to read the rest of the article.
Peter Vickery, Esq., 