The California Whistleblower Protections Law is a legal framework designed to protect employees who report suspected wrongdoing by their employers from retaliation. This law applies to both public and private employers in California.
Under the California Whistleblower Protections Law, an employee who reports suspected violations of law, rule or regulation by their employer is protected from retaliation by their employer. Retaliation can take many forms, including termination, demotion, suspension, or other adverse employment actions.
The law also protects employees who refuse to participate in illegal activities, or who report suspected illegal activities to the appropriate authorities. Furthermore, the law provides protection to employees who assist in any investigation or proceeding related to the suspected illegal activity.
If an employer retaliates against an employee for engaging in protected whistleblowing activity, the employee has the right to file a complaint with the California Labor Commissioner. The employee may also have the right to file a lawsuit against their employer for damages, including lost wages and benefits, emotional distress, and attorney fees.
It is important to note that the California Whistleblower Protections Law does not protect employees who make false or frivolous claims, or who disclose confidential information without a good faith belief that the information disclosed is true and accurate.