Are there whistleblower protections for contractors?
Yes, there are whistleblower protections for contractors in Virginia. The Commonwealth of Virginia has implemented a variety of protections for individuals, both employees and contractors, who disclose information concerning improper government action. These protections, known as the Virginia Whistleblower Act, are codified in the Code of Virginia in Chapter 12 of Title 2.2. Under the Act, a contractor who reasonably believes that he or she has witnessed any activity, practices, policy or procedure that is fraudulent or illegal is legally protected if they report the activity to an appropriate agency. In addition, the Act prohibits employers from retaliating against contractors who report such activities, and provides remedies for individuals who suffer a loss of income or other damages as a result of their whistleblowing. Contractors should be aware that the process for reporting misconduct can vary based on the type of claim being made. In some cases, certain agencies may have the authority to investigate the claim. Alternatively, cases may need to be taken to an administrative hearing or even to court for resolution. In any event, contractors should carefully review the Virginia Whistleblower Act and relevant case law before they proceed with any allegations.
Related FAQs
What is the Whistleblower Rights and Protection Act?What is a bounty claim?
What damages can a whistleblower recover?
What rights do whistleblowers have?
What are some of the federal laws related to whistleblower protection?
Are there any legal restrictions on what information I can disclose?
How do I ensure that my rights as a whistleblower are protected?
How do I determine if a company is violating the law?
What is the National Whistleblower Protection Act?
How does whistleblowing impact the corporate culture?
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