If you have been a witness to fraud or corruption as a federal employee, you need to know your rights. The Whistleblower Protection Act of 1989 is an amended federal law that protects federal whistleblowers who report agency misconduct while working for the government. If the authorities of an agency take, or threaten to take, retaliatory action against an employee or an applicant because they disclosed information, it is a violation of the Whistleblower Protection Act.
Employees who are covered under this Act include:
- Current employees
- Former employees
- Applicants for employment to the executive branch of government
However, there are certain employees who are not covered because of their confidential, policy-determining, policymaking, or policy-advocating character, along with any positions exempted by the President based on a determination that it is necessary and warranted by conditions of good administration. Additionally, federal workers employed in the following areas are also not protected:
- Postal Service
- Postal Rate Commission
- Government Accountability Office
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Central Intelligence Agency
- Defense Intelligence Agency
- National Imagery and Mapping Agency
- National Security Agency
Despite the few exclusions listed above, most people have a right to report wrongdoing in the workplace without fear of harassment or retaliation. If you have suffered harassment after reporting misconduct at work, the Philadelphia employment lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. can help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us online or call 215-569-1999 for a free consultation.
