As social media platforms continue to grow in popularity, it’s becoming increasingly important for employers to understand the laws that regulate their use in the workplace. Texas, like many other states, has laws that specifically address social media use by employees and employers.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the key Texas laws that employers should be aware of when it comes to social media use in the workplace.
Employee Privacy Rights
One of the most important things for employers to understand is that employees have a right to privacy when it comes to their social media accounts. Texas law prohibits employers from asking employees for their social media login information or from requiring employees to add their employer to their list of friends or contacts on social media platforms.
Employers are not allowed to discipline or terminate an employee for refusing to disclose their social media login information or for refusing to allow their employer access to their social media accounts.
Workplace Harassment
Social media can also be a source of workplace harassment, and employers have a responsibility to address any harassment that occurs on social media platforms. Texas law requires employers to have a policy in place for addressing workplace harassment, and this policy should include guidance on how to handle harassment that occurs on social media.
Employers should also take steps to investigate any allegations of harassment that are made on social media platforms and should take appropriate disciplinary action against any employees who engage in harassment.
Social Media Use During Work Hours
Employers may also be concerned about employees using social media during work hours. Texas law allows employers to prohibit employees from using social media during work hours, as long as this policy is clearly communicated to employees and is consistently enforced.
However, employers should be aware that there are certain types of social media use that are protected under Texas law. For example, employees are allowed to use social media to discuss wages and working conditions, as this is considered protected speech under the National Labor Relations Act.
Intellectual Property Rights
Employers should be aware of their intellectual property rights when it comes to social media use. Texas law allows employers to assert their intellectual property rights in any content that is created by employees during the course of their employment.
This means that if an employee creates social media content that is related to their job or that is created using company resources, the employer may be able to claim ownership of that content.
To further protect themselves and their employees, employers should also consider the following tips:
- Develop a Social Media Policy: Having a clear and concise social media policy is important to ensure that all employees understand what is expected of them when it comes to social media use. The policy should include information on what is considered acceptable use of social media, what is considered inappropriate behavior, and the consequences of violating the policy.
- Train Employees: Along with having a social media policy, employers should also provide training to employees on how to use social media in a responsible and professional manner. This training should cover topics such as privacy, harassment, intellectual property, and how to avoid damaging the company’s reputation on social media.
- Monitor Social Media Use: Employers should regularly monitor social media use by their employees to ensure that they are complying with the company’s social media policy. However, employers should be careful not to infringe on employee privacy rights or engage in illegal monitoring practices.
- Respond Appropriately: If an employee engages in inappropriate behavior on social media, employers should respond quickly and appropriately. Depending on the severity of the behavior, employers may need to take disciplinary action or involve legal counsel.
- Social media can be a valuable tool for businesses, but it’s important for employers to understand the laws that regulate its use in the workplace. By implementing clear policies, providing training, monitoring social media use, and responding appropriately to any issues that arise, employers can create a positive social media environment that benefits their business and respects the rights of their employees.
Chavez Law Firm can assist employers with a variety of legal issues related to social media and the workplace in Texas. Here are some ways that our firm can help:
Developing Social Media Policies: Our firm can work with employers to develop clear and comprehensive social media policies that comply with Texas law and protect the interests of the employer.
Advising on Compliance: We can advise employers on how to comply with Texas laws related to social media use in the workplace, including employee privacy rights, harassment, and intellectual property.
Conducting Investigations: If an employer is facing allegations of harassment or other inappropriate behavior on social media, our firm can conduct thorough investigations to determine the facts and advise the employer on appropriate next steps.
Providing Litigation Services: In some cases, employers may face legal action related to social media use in the workplace. Our firm can provide skilled litigation services to help employers defend against these claims and protect their interests.
Chavez Law Firm can help employers navigate the complex legal issues related to social media and the workplace in Texas. Our experienced attorneys can provide guidance, advice, and representation to ensure that employers are in compliance with the law and protect against legal risks related to social media use.