The bill, H.B. No. 1232, amends Section 554.002(a) of the Government Code to enhance whistleblower protections for public employees. It prohibits state or local governmental entities from suspending or terminating the employment of, or taking other adverse personnel actions against, a public employee who in good faith reports a violation of law. The amendment specifically expands the scope of who can be reported to include not only the employing governmental entity and other public employees but also elected officers of the employing governmental entity, provided the report is made to an appropriate law enforcement authority.

The bill is designed to strengthen the legal protections for whistleblowers, encouraging them to report misconduct without fear of retaliation. It will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote from both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will become effective on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 554.002 (Government Code 554)