NCJ Number
109504
Journal
Update Volume: 87-4 Dated: (October 6, 1987) Pages: complete issue
Date Published
1987
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the implementation of Maryland's Whistleblower's Law, summarizing the law, examining its effect on the disclosure of waste and abuse in State government and the impact of whistleblower laws at the Federal level and in other States.
Abstract
Enacted in 1980, Maryland's Whistleblower Protection Law is designed to encourage State employees' reporting of illegal or wasteful government activities without fear of reprisal. Since that time, over 20 States have joined Maryland with similar legislation. The law requires the Secretary of Personnel to develop regulations and procedures for processing and resolving alleged violations of the law. All complaints must be investigated. If a violation of the Whistleblower's Law has occurred, corrective action may include the elimination of any detrimental material from the complainant's personnel file inserted as a retaliatory action; hiring reinstating, promoting, or terminating the suspension of a complainant; awarding back pay to the date of the violation; and making appropriate recommendations that disciplinary action be taken against an employee found to have caused the violation. This report examines amendments to the law, the implementation of the Whistleblower's Protection Program in the State, and recent activity and effectiveness of the act. Although there has not been much recent activity under the law, a significant number of employees make inquiry each year regarding the protections against retaliation that the law provides to State employees. The office charged with administering the program is studying the law and may soon recommend changes. A recent study of the program recommends a toll-free telephone hotline to receive and respond to allegations of fraud, waste, and abuse in State government. The law and data on complaints are provided.