Bill > HB4323

This bill modifies the Whistleblowers' Protection Act to expand protections and rights for employees who report legal violations. The definition of "employee" is broadened to include independent contractors, prospective employees, and individuals employed by state or local governments (excluding state classified civil service). The bill enhances protections by explicitly prohibiting employers from demoting, suspending, or failing to hire employees who report (or are about to report) potential legal violations, provide information during investigations, or protest participating in suspected illegal activities. The legislation increases the time frame for filing a civil action from 90 days to 2 years and allows employees to demand a jury trial. Additionally, the bill introduces a significant financial incentive by mandating that if the state recovers money as a result of an employee's report, the employee who first reported the violation will receive 30% of the recovered funds. The potential civil fine for violations has also been substantially increased from $500 to $10,000 per separate violation. These changes aim to encourage and protect whistleblowers by providing more comprehensive legal safeguards and financial rewards for reporting potential legal infractions.

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https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4323