The committee held a public hearing today to discuss House Bill 1298. Sponsored by Representative Mark Cohen (D-Philadelphia), the legislation would require employers to notify their employees that e-mail communication is monitored and watched. Andy Hoover, the legislative director for the Pennsylvania American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), commended Rep. Cohen and the committee for taking the necessary steps to protect citizens’ civil liberties. He called the bill “sound policy,” because “it sets clear boundaries. People need to know that they are being watched.” Brian Rider, President of the Pennsylvania Retailers’ Association, expressed concern over the legislation. “Mandating that employers maintain written and/or electronic permission is costly,” Rider explained, “and it is also burdensome and creates unnecessary tracking requirements.” He stressed that companies are at the mercy of their employees, and therefore it is necessary to ensure that the employees do not provide “significant harm to the employer and others” via e-mail. The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry submitted written testimony, and Rep. Cohen briefly spoke and answered questions on the bill. Check the Capitol Toolbox later today for the full story.