What rights do whistleblowers have?

Whistleblowers in the District of Columbia are protected from certain employers who might retaliate against them for speaking out. The law provides protection from any kind of discrimination, suspension, or termination from employment if you blow the whistle on an employer’s illegal or unethical practices. The District of Columbia Whistleblower Protection Act also protects employees from any kind of retaliation related to providing truthful testimony to government agencies. Whistleblowers also have the right to file a claim with the District of Columbia Office of Human Rights if they have been retaliated against by their employer. The office will investigate the case and inform the complainant of their right to pursue the claim through civil court. Whistleblowers can also file a claim with the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA will investigate the complaint and inform the complainant of their rights to receive protection from any kind of retaliation from their employer. Additionally, private sector whistleblowers have the right to file a claim with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC will launch an investigation and may provide the complainant with a financial award if the complaint was valid and the complaint resulted in a successful enforcement action or investigation. All whistleblowers should understand that they have the right to remain anonymous if they feel that revealing their identity will put them in danger. Furthermore, the information provided by the whistleblower must be truthful and reliable for action to be taken. Ultimately, whistleblowers in the District of Columbia have a wide range of rights that protect them from any kind of retaliation from their employers.

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What rights do whistleblowers have?

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