Are there any state laws related to whistleblower protection?

Yes, there are state laws related to whistleblower protection in California. The California Whistleblower Protection Act (CWPA) provides protection to public and private sector employees who disclose information they reasonably believe shows a violation of a law, or misuse of public funds or resources. The CWPA also allows employees to file a complaint in court against their employers if they are retaliated or discriminated against for reporting illegal activities or wrongdoing. The CWPA protects employees from discharge, demotion, suspension, threats, or any other form of discrimination or retaliation for disclosing information they believe shows illegal activity or a misuse of resources. Furthermore, employers cannot require an employee to sign a waiver of rights or to interfere with whistle blowing activities. If an employer is found guilty of retaliating against an employee for whistle-blowing activities, the employer could be held liable for any damages caused to the employee, including lost wages and out-of-pocket expenses. The CWPA also provides for administrative remedies such as cease and desist orders and administrative fines. Additionally, the state also has a False Claims Act, which allows whistleblowers to sue employers for fraud and abuse of public funds. The False Claims Act includes a qui tam provision which allows individuals to bring a lawsuit on behalf of the government. If successful, the individual is rewarded with a portion of any money recovered by the government. In summary, California has passed whistleblower protection laws to protect employees who legally report wrongdoing and to give individuals the opportunity to sue on behalf of the government when public funds or resources are being misused.

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