Austin Whistleblower Attorneys

Texas Whistleblower Claims

Standing up to an employer who is committing unethical or illegal acts is never an easy choice. It can be even more difficult for people who are employed by the government, an entity with a fair amount of authority. However, government employees who report their employers' unethical behavior can take comfort in knowing that their rights are legally protected.

The Texas Whistleblower Act

The Texas Whistleblower Act, formally known as Chapter 554 of the Government Code, was passed by the Texas legislature in 1983 to protect government workers brave enough to report unacceptable workplace behavior to higher government authorities. The act applies to every state and local government entity.

In 1995, the Act was amended to strengthen its authority. Prior to this year, some entities sued under this act tried to claim that they were sovereign governments and thus did not have to obey this law. The amendment passed in 1995 waived sovereign immunity, making the issue moot.

Who the Act Protects

Any government employee who, in good faith, reports an illegal activity in the workplace is protected by this act. This means that after the employee has made the report, his or her employer is banned from taking any retaliatory action against him or her. If an employee suffers any kind of injury is response to blowing the whistle on his or her employer, he or she has grounds for civil action.

Fighting Back

If you have been wrongfully terminated, demoted, or otherwise harmed in response to blowing the whistle on your employer, you have ninety days to take action. The first step is to file a grievance. If this process does not adequately address your problem, you may file a suit to win compensation for your mistreatment.

A good lawyer is a vital component to winning your case. Contact the offices of Austin employment attorneys Melton & Kumler today at 512-330-0017.