Bill > S4631

This bill, titled the "Expanding Whistleblower Protections for Contractors Act of 2026," aims to strengthen protections against retaliation for individuals who report wrongdoing related to federal contracts and grants. It expands the definition of a "protected individual" to include not only employees of contractors but also the contractors themselves, subcontractors, grantees, subgrantees, and individuals performing personal services under contract with the federal government, including those working with state and local governments or tribal organizations that are involved in federal contracts. The bill clarifies that protected individuals can report gross mismanagement, waste of funds, abuse of authority, or violations of laws and regulations concerning federal contracts and grants, as well as substantial dangers to public health or safety. Importantly, it explicitly states that these whistleblower protections, including the right to report and the remedies available, cannot be waived through any agreement, policy, or employment condition, including mandatory arbitration clauses. Furthermore, the bill allows for disciplinary action against federal employees who request contractors to engage in retaliatory actions against whistleblowers.