Whistleblowing And What It Means For You

Wisconsin and Illinois employees are protected from retaliation in the workplace when they engage in conduct that is protected for public policy reasons. Various federal and state laws prohibit employers from taking adverse employment action against an employee because he/she has reported certain statutorily defined wrongdoing in the workplace. Oftentimes, these employees are called “whistleblowers.”

The United States Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is the federal agency responsible for enforcing whistleblower or anti-retaliation statutes. However, if you are involved in one of these situations, it is in your best interest to contact a lawyer. At McDonald & Kloth, LLC we can help make sure your rights are protected and enforced.

How Am I Protected?

There are a number of laws put into place to protect people from getting in trouble. Below are just a few examples that contain protections for someone who complains about safety or health hazards caused by an employer. They include:

• Clean Air Act
• Comprehensive Environmental Response
• Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA)
• Safe Drinking Water Act
• Solid Waste Disposal Act
• Toxic Substances Control Act

In order to be protected, you must make a claim in good faith that your employer is violating the law. This includes employees who complain to their employer directly, refuse to participate in the violation, or cooperate in the official investigation. Even if the claim turns out to be wrong, you can’t be fired, demoted or harassed. If you are, you can seek relief in court. Our firm will help you no matter where you are in the process.

Call Today To Discuss Your Case

If you are involved in a whistleblower case, it’s important to talk with an attorney. Our firm will help analyze your claim and determine what the possible options are. You can expect transparency and honesty throughout the entire process. We are here to help. Contact our office in Menomonee Falls at 262-252-9122 or fill out our contact form.