Mainers Closely Watching Bill That Would Allow Job Applicants to Keep Facebook Accounts Secret

David Strock, a partner in both the New England and Boston offices, was interviewed on a radio program for Maine Public Broadcasting about new proposed legislation that would prevent employers from forcing job applicants to turn over their Facebook passwords. Some employers are reportedly asking for access to an applicant's full Facebook site so they can look for any negative information about the applicant. David noted that there are laws that prevent employers from asking certain questions of job applicants, such as age, religion or national origin. By having access to an applicant's personal Facebook profile they are obtaining information they should not have. He said, "The exposure to litigation is substantially increased."