Many individuals struggle to understand the basics as it relates to the Illinois Whistleblower Act. Although there is the At-Will Doctrine, which states the employers can fire employees for any reason or for no reason at all, there are many exceptions to this law that protect the rights of the employees. One of these items is the Whistleblower Act. Learn more about what classifies an individual as a whistleblower, what that means for Illinoisans, and how whistleblowers are protected under the law. If you are from Illinois, keep reading to understand the protections you are entitled to under the law.
What is a Whistleblower?
A whistleblower is an employee that “blows the whistle” on their employer. It is essentially a person that reports that the employer is engaging in some sort of wrongdoing, meaning the employer is breaking either State or Federal laws or regulations.
How does the Illinois Whistleblower Act protect whistleblowers?
The Illinois Whistleblower Act protects employees because it prohibits employers from creating or enforcing rules or policies that prevent employees from disclosing information to the necessary agency if the employee has a reasonable belief that the employer is engaging in illegal activity. This law also prevents employers from taking retaliatory action against employees that report these beliefs to an agency. The law also protects employees who refuse to participate in conduct that would violate State or federal law, rule or regulation.
What Are The Possible Results From A Whistleblower Case?
An employee can file a lawsuit if the employer violated the Whistleblower Act. By doing this, the employee may receive reinstatement of their former position, back pay with interest, compensation for damages, and payment of their attorney’s fees and costs.
Are You Planning On Blowing The Whistle? Contact Us Today.
If you are involved or planning on being involved in a whistleblower case, an attorney can help you by looking over and outlining your possible options. Expect fair and transparent representation when you call McDonald & Kloth, LLC today at 262-252-9122 or by filling out our contact form.