House Bill 16

Chair's Name: Wendell Willard

Committee: Judiciary

House Sponsor: Rich Golick

HB 16 extends the protections given to public employees from retaliatory actions if they report fraud, waste, and abuse. The definition of �Public Employee� is expanded to cover employees of any agency covered under the State Merit System and any local or regional governmental entity that receives state funds. �Public Employer� is also redefined to include local or regional government entities receiving state funds.

The committee substitute received a Do Pass recommendation from the Judiciary Committee and comes to the House Floor as a Rules Committee substitute under the Structured Rule. 

Chairman Willard�s opinion of Judiciary Committee Substitute:

WHAT PROBLEM/OPPORTUNITY DOES THIS LEGISLATION ADDRESS?

HB16 deals with the State Whistleblower Act.  The current law only applies to the State government; it does not apply to local governments.  HB 16 broadens the application of the Act to local governments.

WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THIS LEGISLATION?

Concern by local government employees that there would be retaliation for exposing corruption in local governments. 

THIS LEGISLATION:

• Encourages local governments to operate in an open and efficient manner.