Bill would allow bosses to seek Facebook passwords

Legislation in Olympia could allow employers to ask for a worker’s social-media passwords during company investigations.

A bill amendment proposed Tuesday could allow employers to ask for a worker’s Facebook or other social-media password during company investigations.

The provision was proposed for a bill that safeguards social-network passwords of workers and job applicants. The measure bars employers from asking for social-media credentials during job interviews.

The amendment was introduced at the House Labor Committee at the request of business groups.

In 2012 and this year, seven states banned employers from asking job applicants and employees for their social-network passwords, with some exceptions. An additional 33 states are considering similar laws, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Proponents say that the original bill would open an avenue for possible illegal activity by employees, such as divulging proprietary or consumer information to outsiders through social networks.

The amendment says an employer conducting an investigation may require or demand access to a personal account if an employee or prospective employee has allegations of workplace misconduct or giving away an employer’s proprietary information.

The amendment would require an investigation to ensure compliance with laws or regulatory requirements.

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