Couple wins right to view dead child's Facebook account
The Virginia General Assembly voted to approve a bill that would allow parents to view their child's Facebook account if they die, CBS affiliate WTVR-TV reports.
According to WTVR, Ricky and Diane Rash tried to access their son's Facebook page after his suicide in January 2011, to gain clarity about why he would take his own life.
Facebook's privacy policies prohibit anyone from accessing another person's account, even in the case of minors. Eric Rash was 15-years-old at the time of his death.
Virginia lawmakers voted to allow guardians or executors of a deceased person access to "digital assets" in the case of a person's death. The legislation adds "digital assets" to the state's probate laws.
Guardians and executors will soon be able gain access to social media accounts 30 days after the death of their child, or ward, with a written request and a death certificate.
According to WTVR, the bill is heading to Gov. Bob McDonnell's desk.
