Bill > S1149

This bill, called the SEC Whistleblower Reform Act of 2025, introduces several key protections and procedural improvements for whistleblowers reporting securities-related misconduct. First, it expands the definition of a "whistleblower" to include individuals who report potential violations internally to supervisors or other authorized personnel within their organization, in addition to reporting directly to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The bill also strengthens anti-retaliation protections by allowing individuals who report potential violations to seek legal recourse, including the right to a jury trial if they experience workplace retaliation. Additionally, the bill mandates that the SEC process whistleblower award claims more efficiently, requiring an initial disposition within one year, with limited provisions for extending this timeline if claims are particularly complex. Importantly, the bill prohibits employers from requiring employees to waive their whistleblower rights through employment agreements or mandatory arbitration clauses, ensuring that workers can report potential misconduct without fear of contractual restrictions. These amendments are designed to encourage reporting of potential securities law violations by providing clearer protections and more robust mechanisms for whistleblowers to safely disclose information of public concern.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1149/all-info