Senate Bill 2487 aims to enhance the reporting of improper government conduct and crimes by state employees in Tennessee. The bill introduces a new part to the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 8, Chapter 50, which outlines the responsibilities of state employees who suspect misconduct. It defines key terms such as "adverse employment action," "crime," "good faith report," and "improper government conduct." State employees are required to report any suspected misconduct to their supervisors, who must then relay this information to the attorney general and reporter. The bill also establishes penalties for supervisors who fail to report such misconduct and prohibits any adverse employment actions against employees who make good faith reports.
Additionally, the bill mandates that each state agency adopt a written policy regarding the reporting of improper conduct and crimes, ensuring that employees are informed of their obligations and protections. The attorney general and reporter is tasked with creating a reporting form for supervisors and must provide annual reports to the joint government operations committee detailing the number of reports received and their outcomes. This legislation is designed to promote transparency and accountability within state agencies while protecting whistleblowers from retaliation.