LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan legislation aimed at prohibiting employers from asking job applicants and employees for online passwords and other account information could become law.

Republican state Rep. Aric Nesbitt of Lawton sponsored a House bill that was approved last week. He says it also would prohibit educational institutions from asking for private account information and would penalize them for dismissing or failing to accept students who don't provide such details.

The aim is to help protect access to personal Twitter, Facebook and other social media accounts.

Nesbitt's office says the bill was sent to the desk of Gov. Rick Snyder. A message was sent Wednesday morning seeking comment from Snyder's office.