Three substantial changes were made in 2008 to the state’s Whistleblower Act that make it easier for state employees to discuss and report improper governmental actions. In brief, it created a network of local “public officials,” it expanded protection beyond whistleblowers to the people participating in a whistleblower investigation, and it expanded the scope of what types of actions are improper or illegal.
Written Report Requirements A written assertion report should include:
Complaints must be filed within one year of the action in question. Employees may submit whistleblower reports anonymously. The State Auditor’s Office sends acknowledgment to the whistleblower within 15 working days of receipt of the report. The acknowledgement states whether or not a preliminary investigation will be conducted. |
The revised law, Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6776 (Chapter 42.40 RCW), requires designated state government “public officials” to receive and document whistleblower complaints and forward them to the State Auditor’s Office if appropriate criteria is met.
-
Is a gross waste of public funds or resources.
-
Is in violation of federal or state law or rule, if the violation is not merely technical or of a minimum nature.
-
Is of substantial and specific danger to the public health or safety.
- Represent a gross mismanagement.
-
Prevents dissemination of scientific opinion or alters technical findings.
-
Frequently Asked Questions about the state Whistleblower Act
-
Whistleblower complaint forms
-
Whistleblower laws and rules
-
State Auditor’s Office Hotline 866-902-3900