What protections are available for whistleblowers?

Whistleblowers are individuals who report illegal or unethical activities committed by their employers. In California, there are a number of protections available for whistleblowers who wish to file a complaint. The California Whistleblower Protection Act (CWPA) offers state employees protection from retaliation if they make a reasonable and good faith disclosure of wrongdoing to their employer or a law enforcement agency. Under the CWPA, any retaliatory action taken against a whistleblower is illegal. The California False Claims Act (CFCA) also provides protection for whistleblowers who report violations of state law or misuse of public funds. If a person discovering fraud reports it to the authorities, they may be eligible for a monetary award for bringing the wrongdoing to light. Additionally, California Labor Code Sections 1102.5 and 98.6 provide protections for employees who report illegal or unsafe working conditions or practices, such as discrimination or harassment in the workplace, and employers who take retaliatory actions against those employees can be held liable. If a whistleblower experiences retaliation, they can file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing. The department will investigate the complaint and take appropriate action, such as providing compensation for lost wages or providing a job back. By understanding the protections offered by state and federal laws, whistleblowers can confidently report illegal or unethical activities without fear of retribution.

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What protections are available for whistleblowers?

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