The Alaska Whistleblower Act is a state law that provides protection to employees who report violations of state or federal law or who report suspected waste, fraud, or abuse in state government. The law applies to employees of state agencies, as well as employees of certain private employers who contract with the state.
Under the Alaska Whistleblower Act, covered employees who report violations or suspected violations are protected from retaliation by their employer. Retaliation may include any adverse employment action, such as termination, demotion, or suspension, as well as threats, harassment, or other forms of intimidation.
If an employee believes they have been retaliated against for reporting a violation or suspected violation, they may file a complaint with the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The department will investigate the complaint and, if it finds evidence of retaliation, may order the employer to reinstate the employee and provide back pay and other damages.
The Alaska Whistleblower Act also provides certain procedural protections to employees who make reports, including the right to confidentiality and the right to file a complaint without fear of retaliation.