Bill > S1154

This bill enhances whistleblower protections for federal employees, contractors, and job applicants by expanding and clarifying their rights to petition or provide information to Congress without facing retaliation. The bill amends existing law to create a comprehensive framework for protecting individuals who report potential wrongdoing, offering different administrative remedies based on the specific type of agency involved (such as standard federal agencies, FBI, intelligence community, and contractors). If administrative remedies are not resolved within 180 days or are denied, whistleblowers can file a lawsuit in federal district court seeking various forms of relief, including up to 200% of lost wages, reinstatement, benefits, attorney fees, compensatory damages, and injunctive relief. The bill broadens the definition of "covered individuals" to include current employees, former employees, and job applicants from federal agencies and their contractors. Importantly, the legislation provides specific pathways for different types of federal workers to seek corrective action, with provisions that ensure these protections apply across various employment contexts and agency types, ultimately strengthening safeguards for those who report potential misconduct to Congress.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1154/all-info