In California, a whistleblower is an employee who reports suspected illegal, unethical, or unsafe activities in the workplace. California law offers strong protections to these individuals to encourage the reporting of wrongdoing without fear of retaliation. These protections are outlined primarily in California Labor Code Section 1102.5 and other state statutes.

Who Is Considered a Whistleblower?

You may be considered a whistleblower if you report any of the following:

• Violations of state or federal laws or regulations
• Noncompliance with local ordinances or rules
• Unsafe working conditions or public health risks
• Fraud, corruption, or misuse of public funds

Reports can be made to a supervisor, manager, internal compliance department, government agency, or law enforcement authority. You do not need to be correct about the violation — you only need to reasonably believe the conduct is unlawful or unsafe.

What Laws Protect Whistleblowers?

Several California laws provide whistleblower protections:

• Labor Code Section 1102.5: Prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who disclose information they reasonably believe shows a violation of law.
• Labor Code Section 6310: Protects employees who report unsafe working conditions to the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA).
• Whistleblower Protection Act (Gov. Code §8547): Applies to public sector employees reporting governmental misconduct.

What Protections Do Whistleblowers Have?

If you are a whistleblower, your employer is prohibited from retaliating against you through actions such as:

• Termination or demotion
• Reduction in hours or pay
• Harassment or intimidation
• Denial of promotions or benefits

Employers who violate whistleblower protection laws may be liable for lost wages, reinstatement, emotional distress damages, and civil penalties.

How to Report as a Whistleblower

If you plan to blow the whistle, consider taking the following steps:

• Document everything — including the misconduct and your attempts to report it
• Report internally (when safe) or directly to a relevant government agency
• Consult an employment attorney to understand your rights and protections

Protecting Your Rights as a Whistleblower

If you suspect retaliation for reporting misconduct at work, it’s important to act quickly. A qualified employment attorney can help you file a retaliation claim, secure evidence, and seek the compensation or reinstatement you deserve. California law is on your side when you act in good faith to uphold justice in the workplace.