The legal protection for whistleblowers in the United States is extensive and covers a wide range of industries and types of misconduct.
Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) protects employees of publicly traded companies who report violations of securities laws or regulations. SOX prohibits retaliation against whistleblowers, including termination, demotion or other forms of discrimination.
False Claims Act (FCA) allows whistleblowers to file lawsuits on behalf of the government against companies that defraud government programs, such as Medicare or Medicaid. Whistleblowers who file successful claims can receive a portion of the recovered damages.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides protection for employees who report violations of workplace safety laws or regulations. OSHA prohibits retaliation against whistleblowers, including termination, demotion or other forms of discrimination.
Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA) provides protection for federal employees who report violations of laws or regulations. The WPA prohibits retaliation against whistleblowers and provides a process for filing complaints and seeking remedies.