Washington State Whistleblower Act

Washington State Whistleblower Act

State law (RCW 42.40.070) requires the College to annually provide information about the Whistleblower Act to its employees. The Whistleblower program is intended to provide an opportunity for employees to report improper governmental actions. The law makes retaliation against individuals whose assertions result in a whistleblower investigation unlawful and authorizes remedies should it occur. Whistleblower complaints may be filed anonymously.

Improper governmental action is defined as any action by an employee undertaken in the performance of the employee’s official duties which:

• Is in violation of federal or state law or rule, if the violation is not merely technical or of a minimum nature;
• Is a gross waste of public funds or resources;
• Is of substantial and specific danger to the public health or safety;
• Is gross mismanagement;
• Prevents dissemination of scientific opinion or alters technical findings;
• Using a state computer or email for a private business.

The Whistleblower Act specifically states that improper governmental action does not include personnel matters.

State Auditor’s Office provides an FAQ page with additional information, as well as online resources, support, and program information on the their website.

Whistleblower complaints may be filed directly via the State Auditor’s Office website.