The bill amends Chapter 554 of the Government Code to enhance whistleblower protections by explicitly including "wasteful spending" alongside "violations of law" as grounds for protection against retaliation. The amendments specify that a state or local governmental entity cannot suspend or terminate a public employee, or take other adverse actions, for reporting either type of misconduct. Additionally, the bill outlines that reports of violations can be made to appropriate law enforcement authorities or the state auditor's office, depending on the nature of the report.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a presumption that any adverse action taken against an employee within 90 days of their report is retaliatory, unless proven otherwise. It also provides an affirmative defense for employers, allowing them to demonstrate that the action taken was based on unrelated information. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 554.002 (Government Code 554)
House Committee Report: Government Code 554.002, Government Code 554.004 (Government Code 554)