Risks associated with whistle-blowing

According to several federal laws, including the Whistleblower Protection Act of 1989 and the False Claims Reform Act of 1986, it is illegal to fire an employee engaged in whistle-blowing. Several states also have laws that prohibit employers from firing individuals for whistle-blowing.

If termination does result from whistle-blowing, the whistle-blower should contact legal counsel immediately. Such an employee is eligible to file a suit against the employer for wrongful termination and might also sue for lost wages, punitive damages, attorney’s fees, and emotional distress. It’s also important to note that an employer cannot reduce an employee’s wages for blowing the whistle.