PA HB1559

Employers must provide prior written notice to employees about electronic monitoring of activities or communications via computer, telephone, radio, electromagnetic, or photo-optical systems, and post this notice in a conspicuous location

Electronic monitoring excludes security surveillance in public common areas and any monitoring prohibited by federal or state law; the definition of employee includes independent contractors

Employers may conduct monitoring without notice if they have reasonable grounds to believe an employee is violating the law, employer/employee rights, or creating a hostile workplace environment

Penalties for violations are $500 for a first offense, $2,000 for a second violation, and $5,000 for third or subsequent violations

Repeat violations may constitute evidence of harassment in private lawsuits against employers, and the act takes effect 60 days after enactment