Government Command Center 16 items
Public Sector Whistleblower Protection Program Checklist
Evaluates a government entity's whistleblower program for protected reporting channels, anti-retaliation safeguards, and investigation procedures.
State Whistleblower Protection ActRetaliation Prohibitions
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Policy & Reporting Channels
- Has the entity adopted a written whistleblower policy approved by the governing body? *
- Are multiple reporting channels available, including a confidential hotline or online portal? *
- Does the policy allow anonymous reporting where permitted by law? *
- Is the policy communicated to all employees and posted as required? *
Protected Disclosures
- Does the policy define protected disclosures to include violations of law, gross mismanagement, waste, abuse of authority, and dangers to public health or safety? *
- Are employees informed of external reporting options to oversight agencies or auditors? *
- Are disclosures protected regardless of whether the reported violation is ultimately substantiated, if made in good faith? *
- Are contractors and applicants covered where required by statute? *
Anti-Retaliation
- Does the policy prohibit retaliation such as discharge, demotion, or adverse action against a reporter? *
- Are supervisors trained not to take adverse action in response to protected activity? *
- Is a remedy process available to employees who allege retaliation? *
- Are personnel actions involving a known whistleblower reviewed for retaliation risk? *
Investigation & Recordkeeping
- Are reports promptly evaluated and investigated by an impartial party? *
- Is the reporter's identity kept confidential to the extent permitted by law? *
- Are investigation findings and corrective actions documented? *
- Are whistleblower records retained under the applicable records retention schedule? *
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