The bill amends the Whistleblowers' Protection Act to enhance protections for employees who report violations of state, local, or federal laws. Key changes include the addition of protections for employees who report planned violations and those who participate in investigations or hearings related to such violations. The definition of "employee" is expanded to include independent contractors and prospective employees who have engaged in protected activities. Additionally, the bill clarifies that employers cannot discriminate against employees for reporting violations or participating in investigations, and it introduces new provisions for civil actions, including the right to a jury trial.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new section that mandates the state to pay 30% of any recovered funds resulting from an employee's report of a violation to the employee who made the report. It also increases the civil fines for violations of the act from a maximum of $500 to $10,000 for each separate violation, with fines directed to the state general fund. These amendments aim to strengthen the legal framework protecting whistleblowers and incentivize reporting of unlawful activities.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 15.361