Can I be retaliated against for taking medical leave?
Yes, you can be retaliated against for taking medical leave in Washington. According to the Washington Law Against Discrimination (WLAD), employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees based on their medical condition or any other protected characteristic. This means that, if you are taking medical leave that is due to a medical condition or disability, your employer cannot retaliate against you. However, there are some exceptions, such as if you are engaged in illegal activity or you are taking medical leave for reasons unrelated to your health. It is also important to note that Washington has a Whistleblower Law. This law protects employees from retaliations if they report credible information that reveals any unsafe or illegal practices by their employer. If you have reported any employer misconduct and you are then retaliated against, then you can file a Whistleblower claim. If you feel like you are being retaliated against for taking medical leave, you should first speak to your employer and then consider consulting with an attorney. If you are not comfortable talking to your employer, then you can also speak to a Human Resources representative or file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission.
Related FAQs
What remedies are available to victims of retaliation?How do I navigate the whistleblower process?
What is the Whistleblower Protection Programs Improvement Act of 2017?
How do I report and file a whistleblower complaint or claim?
What are some best practices for whistleblowing?
Are there whistleblower protection programs for private companies?
What is the Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016?
How do I file a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)?
How do I prove that I faced retaliation for being a whistleblower?
What are some of the financial incentives available to whistleblowers?
Related Blog Posts
What A Whistleblower Should Know About The Laws Protecting Them - July 31, 2023The Rights of Whistleblowers: A Guide for Those Who Speak Out - August 7, 2023
Exploring the Basics of Whistleblower Law in the U.S. - August 14, 2023
How to Make a Whistleblower Claim Under Federal Law - August 21, 2023
The Benefits of Hiring a Whistleblower Lawyer - August 28, 2023