NASA requires JPL scientists to give up right to privacy

I found this on slashdot.org, there is much more discussion of this story there. The story leads off like this:

"Wired is reporting that all NASA JPL scientists must 'voluntarily' (or be fired) sign a document giving the government the right to investigate their personal lives and history 'without limit'. According to the Union of Concerned Scientists this includes snooping into sexual orientation, mental & physical health as well as credit history and 'personality conflict'. 28 senior NASA scientists and engineers, including Mars Rover team members, refused to sign by the deadline and are now subject to being fired despite a decade or more of exemplary service. None of them even work on anything classified or defense related. They are suing the government and documenting their fight for their jobs and right to personal privacy."

The Wired story is at http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2007/11/jpl-scientists.html

So this could lead to Mars Rover scientists being fired??

If the government is allowed to get away with this creeping invasion, you can bet Corporate America won't be far behind.

"Want a job? Then let us know everything about you. What have you got to hide? We're only trying to create a safe and happy work environment for everyone. Like one big family. And families shouldn't have secrets, now, should they? Don't want to comply? Too bad. I'm sure a few months of living on the street will change your attitude. By the way, we've made a note of your non-compliance on your National ID file. Good luck working anyplace else! Have a nice day!"

interplanetray geologist (yeah, I know) just took a position at JPL. I don't think he'll be too happy about this.

Never ever thought I'd see this in America...and the really infuriating thing is IT'S NOT THE FIRST TIME!!

Where are the Dems? Is ANYONE in power conscious to what this means? Does their silence mean they think this is OKAY?