DOVER, Del. - The Delaware Senate passed legislation relating to employment rights on Thursday, specifically for computer-related offenses.
Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 147 would allow workers to present electronically stored business records as evidence of workplace misconduct. It provides that an employee is not guilty of a crime if he discloses information obtained electronically, so long as his actions were taken to pursue a claim that an employer violated a state or federal employment law that protects the rights of employees. The substitute differs from the original bill, as it does not include destroying computer equipment.
Under the current legal framework, Delaware workers utilizing email or electronic records to document violations of employment law risk misdemeanor charges and civil suits that could outweigh any potential compensation for successful misconduct claims. Senate Bill 147 introduces an exemption in Delaware's computer crimes law, shielding workers from both criminal and civil liabilities when accessing or disclosing electronic records in pursuit of workplace misconduct claims.
Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 147 is sponsored by Sen. Laura Sturgeon, who serves as the representative for the Fourth Senate District including communities like West Brandywine Hundred, Greenville, Centerville, Hockessin and segments of Pike Creek. It now heads to the House.