Can a whistleblower sue their employer?

Yes, a whistleblower in Washington can sue their employer. Washington is one of several states with whistleblower laws allowing employees to file lawsuits against their employers for any retaliatory or discriminatory behavior they experience as a result of whistleblowing activities. Generally, an employee in Washington who believes their employer has subjected them to an adverse action in response to whistleblowing activities can file a claim in court. To make a valid claim, an employee must prove that their employer engaged in an adverse action specifically because of the employee’s whistleblowing activities. The employee is also entitled to protection from employer retaliation or discrimination if they raise a good faith concern, even if the concern turns out to be unfounded. Moreover, Washington state law makes it unlawful for employers to take retaliatory action against a whistleblower for making a complaint to their supervisor, the media, or any applicable legal authority. In addition to the remedies provided in civil court, whitleblowers can receive protections from employer retaliation under the Washington’s Whistleblower Protection Act. This act prohibits an employer from taking retaliatory measures against an employee for making lawful disclosure, or engaging in any activity necessary to make lawful disclosure, of a violation of state or federal laws or regulations. If a whistleblower in Washington experiences workplace retaliation, they may be entitled to damages, including lost wages, reinstatement with back pay, or other equitable relief. In some cases, the court may even order the employer to cover the whistleblower’s legal fees.

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Can a whistleblower sue their employer?

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