The bill establishes new protections for employees of nongovernmental employers regarding the disclosure of information to members or employees of the Iowa General Assembly. It prohibits employers from preventing employees from sharing information that they reasonably believe indicates a violation of law or poses a significant danger to public health or safety. Additionally, employers cannot require employees to inform them about such disclosures or retaliate against them through adverse employment actions, such as demotion or termination. However, these protections do not apply if the disclosure is mandated by law or if the employee engages in deceptive practices that harm the employer.
Furthermore, the bill allows aggrieved employees to seek civil remedies, including injunctive relief and damages, if their rights under this section are violated. It ensures that any disclosures made under these provisions are confidential and protected from compelled disclosure in legal proceedings. The bill also clarifies that it does not permit employees to retaliate against employers through misconduct. Lastly, the legislative services agency is tasked with posting a notice of these provisions on the General Assembly's website to inform the public.