California Jury Rules Meta Violated Privacy Laws by Illegally Collecting Health Data from Flo App Users

A San Francisco jury has determined that Meta Platforms Inc. unlawfully gathered health data from users of the Flo period-tracking application, breaching California’s wiretap laws. This ruling emerges from a 2021 lawsuit in which users of the Flo app accused Meta, Alongside Google, Flo itself, and analytics company Flurry, of collecting their private menstrual health information without their consent for targeted advertising. During the trial, evidence indicated that Flo, despite assurances of user privacy, permitted Meta and Google to monitor in-app communications between late 2016 and early 2019. This allegedly contravened California’s Invasion of Privacy … Read more

NFIB Minnesota Discusses Impact of New Independent Contractor Laws on Local Businesses

St. Paul, Minnesota — Discussions around proposed legislation concerning independent contractors have garnered significant attention from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) in Minnesota. The conversation centers on regulations that could reshape how independent contractors operate within the state, impacting thousands of workers and business owners. At the heart of these discussions is a proposal that seeks to classify more workers as employees rather than independent contractors. Advocates argue that such changes would enhance benefits like healthcare and retirement savings for the workforce. Opponents, however, warn that stringent regulations could deter businesses from hiring … Read more

California Jury Rules Meta Violated Privacy Laws by Collecting Sensitive Data from Period Tracking App

SAN FRANCISCO — A jury in California has ruled against Meta, finding the company liable for infringing state privacy regulations by improperly collecting menstrual health information from users of the period tracking app Flo. This decision follows a recent settlement reached by Flo Health regarding similar claims in a class action lawsuit. The lawsuit accused Meta, along with other firms, of gathering sensitive health data, including menstrual cycles and fertility objectives, for advertising purposes, in violation of the California Invasion of Privacy Act. Originally, the lawsuit also included Google, Flo, and analytics companies AppsFlyer and … Read more

Arkansas Readies for Major Legislative Changes as New Laws Take Effect This August

Little Rock, Arkansas – A new set of laws will take effect in Arkansas starting August 5, following recent approval by state lawmakers and the signature of Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. These laws, covering various sectors, are expected to impact daily life for many residents. Among the changes, new regulations aim to address issues in education, labor, and public safety. The legislature’s recent session saw a significant number of bills passed that reflect the administration’s priorities. Advocates and critics alike have voiced their opinions on the implications these laws may have on different community groups. … Read more