Can I be retaliated against if I refuse to participate in illegal activities?

Yes, in Washington, you can be retaliated against if you refuse to participate in illegal activities. Washington whistleblower law protects employees from unfair retaliation when they report illegal activities or refuse to participate in them at work. Under this law, employers are not allowed to fire, demote, or otherwise discriminate against an employee for participating in protected activities. Protected activities can include refusing to perform an illegal act; disclosing information about an illegal act; or objecting to or refusing to engage in an activity that is unlawful, unethical, or otherwise improper. Whistleblowing is considered a protected activity when it is done in a safe and responsible manner. Under Washington whistleblower law, an employer may not take any action or threaten to take any action against an employee that would discourage or deter a reasonable employee from engaging in protected activities. This includes firing, demoting, harassment, or any other form of retaliation. Additionally, employers have an obligation to provide a safe and secure working environment for employees who are participating in protected activities. If you feel like you have been retaliated against for refusing to participate in illegal activities, then you can file a whistleblower complaint with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.

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Can I be retaliated against if I refuse to participate in illegal activities?

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