This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to enhance whistleblower protections for public employees by introducing new definitions and expanding the scope of protected disclosures. Specifically, it adds definitions for "Abuse," "Fraud," and "Waste," which describe actions that lead to unnecessary costs or involve deception in state agency programs. The bill also introduces a new subdivision that explicitly protects public employees who report fraud, waste, or abuse in state agency programs, thereby broadening the circumstances under which employees are shielded from retaliation.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing language in section 181.932 to clarify the prohibited actions an employer can take against an employee for reporting violations or participating in investigations. It removes certain phrases and adds new protections, ensuring that employees who report misconduct related to fraud, waste, or abuse are explicitly covered. This legislative change aims to foster a safer environment for public employees to report unethical practices without fear of retaliation.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 181.932
1st Engrossment: 181.931, 181.932