AUGUSTA – A measure sponsored by Rep. Amy Roeder, D-Bangor, that would protect Maine workers from intrusive employer surveillance was enacted by the full Legislature last Wednesday, June 25. The bill now awaits final action by Gov. Janet Mills.
LD 61 will limit the use of surveillance tools used by employers to monitor their employees. Employer surveillance can include the use of security cameras, phone recording, mouse tracking, remote desktop control, monitoring internet activity, mobile device tracking and more.
“The use of surveillance technology for safety reasons is one thing,” said Roeder. “But employers using this technology to monitor productivity and track the performance of their employees is an overreach. I am proud that the Legislature agrees that we need these common-sense protections in place for Maine workers, especially during this time when monitoring technology is pervasive and intrusive.”
As amended, the measure provides an exemption from the use of audiovisual monitoring in an employee’s residence, personal vehicle or property if it is required to fulfill the duties of their job. Additionally, the use of surveillance in personal care services settings is exempt. An employer must also provide written notice to their employees that they engage in surveillance at least once per calendar year.
Roeder is serving her third term in the Maine House of Representatives and is House chair of the Labor Committee. She represents House District 23, which includes a portion of Bangor.
Contact:
Brian Lee (Roeder) | 305-965-2744