This bill establishes mandatory reporting requirements for state employees who suspect improper governmental conduct or crimes, as defined within the legislation. It amends existing law by updating section 1-56-11 to require state employees to report any reasonable suspicions of such conduct according to the guidelines set forth in chapter 3-6C. The bill introduces new definitions for terms such as "adverse employment action," "conflict of interest," "crime," "good faith report," and "improper governmental conduct," among others, to clarify the scope of the reporting obligations.
Additionally, the bill mandates that state employees who suspect misconduct must promptly notify their supervisors, who are then required to report the findings to the attorney general and auditor-general. Supervisors who fail to report or submit evidence as required will face penalties classified as Class 1 misdemeanors. Each state agency is also required to adopt a written policy on reporting such conduct and to inform employees of their obligations and protections under this law. Furthermore, the attorney general is tasked with providing annual reports to the Government Operations and Audit Committee regarding the number and outcomes of reports received.
Statutes affected: Senate Judiciary Engrossed, 02/11/2025: 1-56-11
House Engrossed, 03/03/2025: 1-56-11
Enrolled, 03/06/2025: 1-56-11