Biometric Privacy Laws: What Your Business Needs to Know About Compliance
Employers increasingly use biometric technologies—fingerprint time clocks, facial recognition, and dash‑cam scanning—to boost security and efficiency. However, three states (Illinois, Texas, Washington) have enacted biometric privacy statutes that mandate employee notice, written consent, and strict data handling protocols. Illinois' Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) is the most expansive, granting private rights of action and prompting numerous class‑action suits. Companies operating in or collecting data from these states must align policies and vendor contracts to avoid costly litigation.
Conducting Criminal Background Checks? What the Phath Decision Means for Employers
The Pennsylvania Third Circuit in Phath v. Central Transport clarified that the Criminal History Record Information Act (CHRIA) applies whenever an employer considers criminal history, even if the applicant volunteers the information. Employers must now evaluate any disclosed conviction for...
Act 55 Takes Effect: An “Express Lane” For UC Claimants Affected by Domestic Violence
Pennsylvania’s new Act 55, effective 2025, adds an “express lane” for unemployment compensation claimants impacted by domestic violence. The law shields claimants who quit or miss work due to safety concerns from disqualification, allowing expedited eligibility determinations. Verification may rely...