Can a whistleblowers sue if they are retaliated against?

Yes, a whistleblower in Washington can sue if they are retaliated against for reporting an unethical or illegal act. Washington’s Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA) provides protection for whistleblowers, including the right to sue if one is retaliated against for whistleblowing. The WPA applies to people who work for private employers, state and local governments, and public employers. In order to be protected under the WPA, the whistleblower must have reported or are about to report a violation of laws, rule, or regulation; mismanagement; abuse of authority; or a danger to public health or safety. If a whistleblower is retaliated against, they may sue the retaliating party. This may include being fired, demoted, harassed, or otherwise mistreated in any way. The whistleblower may be entitled to reinstatement, back pay, damages, attorney’s fees, court costs, and other remedies. However, it is important to note that the WPA does not provide immunity from disciplinary action. An employer can still take disciplinary action against a whistleblower, but only if the disciplinary action is not retaliatory. Overall, Washington’s Whistleblower Protection Act provides strong whistleblower protection for public and private employees. If a whistleblower is retaliated against for reporting an unethical or illegal act, they may be entitled to sue the party responsible for the retaliation.

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Can a whistleblowers sue if they are retaliated against?

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