Hello,

If the mayor is some type of medical professional then this would be considered a HIPAA violation as those rules apply to medical professionals and people in the healthcare industry. If the mayor is not some type of medical or healthcare professional, then HIPAA doesn't apply. Someone must be a "covered entity" in order to be bound under HIPAA. A covered entity is a health plan, health care clearinghouse, and any health care provider that conducts certain health care transactions electronically.
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However, you could have a cause of action for publication of private information. Elements of the Tort include (1) publication, (2) absent any waiver or privilege, (3) of private matters in which the public has no legitimate concern, (4) so as to bring shame or humiliation to a person of ordinary sensibilities.

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The Restatement (Second) of Torts, § 652D, at 383 (1977), articulates the tort of public disclosure of private facts by stating that "(o)ne who gives publicity to a matter concerning the private life of another is subject to liability to the other for invasion of his privacy, if the matter publicized is of a kind that (a) would be highly offensive to a reasonable person, and (b) is not of legitimate concern to the public."

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You would need to contact a local civil Litigation attorney to discuss the case and what type of damages you could sue for. If this was a willful act, it is likely that Punitive Damages would apply to set an example for this behavior and discourage future similar conduct.

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Thanks.

Barrister

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Please do not rate 2 stars/faces "Helped a little" or 1 star/face "I expected more" if you need further help as this is considered a negative rating against me. Just reply to me via the “CONTINUE CONVERSATION” button with the issue you have as I receive no compensation for my efforts for the lowest two ratings.

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Please keep in mind that I am trying to help you understand and resolve your situation. I don't make the laws, I am just reporting or interpreting them, so the outcome may not be what you had hoped for.

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Please be patient as I am typically working with several customers at any given time. Some answers take 5 minutes, some 35 minutes. But rest assured, I will get back to you.

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