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House of Reps seal and a whistle

Whistleblower Legislation Definition

For the purpose of identifying responsive legislation on the Office's Whistleblower Legislation Tracker, the Office developed its own definition of "whistleblower legislation" below.

Legislation that creates or modifies the rights of one or more members of an identified group to lawfully disclose information that may evidence misconduct that is a matter of public concern.

Such legislation may:

  • Define how to lawfully engage in protected whistleblowing.
  • Prohibit those with authority from engaging in retaliation.
  • Provide a means for the whistleblower(s) to seek relief from retaliation.
  • Provide a process for investigating the disclosure to seek accountability or other corrective action.