Google's $10 million Spirit Airlines Data Bid Sparks Worker Protection Concerns

Google's proposed $10 million purchase of Spirit Airlines' business and employment data has sparked concerns from unions over worker protection. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO and the Air Line Pilots Association have objected to the deal, which would give Google access to millions of internal communications and payroll records.

The unions are worried that without federal workplace AI regulation, states may not be able to protect employee data. Currently, state privacy laws don't provide adequate recourse for workers whose data is sold or transferred to third parties for AI training.

Employment law scholars and attorneys note that the collection or sale of employee data for artificial intelligence training remains a major legal blind spot. Without private right of action, enforcement relies on state AGs' political will and resources, which are often constrained.