Bill > H0262

This bill establishes comprehensive restrictions on electronic monitoring and automated decision systems in employment settings in Vermont. The legislation defines key terms like "electronic monitoring" (collecting information about employee activities through digital means) and "automated decision system" (computational processes used to make employment-related decisions). The bill requires employers to provide detailed, advance notice to employees about any electronic monitoring, including the specific methods, purposes, data collection, and potential uses. Employers are prohibited from using electronic monitoring in private spaces like bathrooms or personal residences, and from monitoring employees during off-duty times. The bill also places significant limitations on automated decision systems, mandating that such systems cannot be solely relied upon for employment decisions and must be subject to human oversight. Employers must conduct and provide impact assessments that evaluate potential risks of discrimination, privacy violations, and harm to employees. The legislation requires employers to protect employee data, allow employees to access and correct their data, and prohibits retaliation against employees who exercise their rights under this law. Notably, the bill bans the use of facial recognition, voice recognition, and emotion recognition technologies. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving employers time to adjust their monitoring and decision-making practices to comply with these new requirements.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.262