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Whistleblower Protection Act: New rights for federal employees and contractors reporting misconduct.

This Act expands protection for whistleblowers in federal agencies, including employees, former employees, applicants, and employees of government contractors. The changes make it easier to seek remedies against retaliation for providing information to Congress. Citizens gain the right to faster recourse in federal court if an agency fails to issue a decision within 180 days, enhancing their security and ability to fight for justice if their rights are violated.
Key points
Expanded Coverage: Protection against retaliation now covers not only federal employees but also employees, former employees, and applicants of contractors, subcontractors, and grantees of federal agencies.
New Remedies: Whistleblowers, including employees of the FBI and intelligence agencies, gain access to specific administrative procedures to seek corrective action for retaliation.
Private Right of Action: If an agency fails to resolve a case within 180 days, the whistleblower can bring the case directly to a U.S. district court, gaining the right to a jury trial and potential relief (including 200% of lost wages and attorney fees).
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_4655
Sponsor: Sen. Blumenthal, Richard [D-CT]
Process start date: 2024-07-10