November 29, 2025 — PEF filed an improper practice charge on behalf of a member against the Department of Transportation (DOT) after the agency installed a surveillance camera in front of her private property where her family has a maple processing setup and farmstand.
The member worked some afternoons remotely from the property. DOT installed the camera to investigate whether she was running her business on work time. The camera was recording the comings and goings of her children and spouse, who also spent time at the property.
When PEF became aware of this practice, Field Representative Shaun Francis filed an improper practice charge against DOT for installing the camera without first notifying and negotiating over its installation with PEF. The union asserted that this intrusion violated the privacy of her and her family. An Administrative Law Judge agreed and found that the state violated New York’s Taylor Law when DOT unilaterally installed the camera.
“Protecting our members on the job is one of PEF’s top priorities,” said Statewide Director of Field Services Katie Vorwald. “The installation of this camera invaded the privacy of the member’s spouse and children, as well as anyone who visited the property. Members have rights when telecommuting and we will continue to work to ensure they are respected.”