Brief Description: Applying whistleblower and discrimination provisions to contractors who hold contracts with the state.

Sponsors: Representatives Haigh, Nixon, Hudgins, Jarrett, Cody, Haler, Santos and Morrell.

Hearing Date: 1/27/06

Staff: Kasa Tupua (786-7291).

Background:

In 1982, the state whistleblower protection program was established to encourage state employees to disclose improper governmental action and to provide protection to employees who report improper action. Employees who provide information about improper governmental action are protected from retaliatory action, and have remedies available under the Human Rights Commission provisions.

Summary of Bill:

State whistleblower and discrimination provisions are applied to state contractors or employees of state contractors. The definition of employee is modified to include a contractor who holds a contract with the state, or an employee of a contractor who holds a contract with the state. The Human Rights Commission provision on discrimination is also modified to prohibit retaliation against any contractor who holds a contract with the state, or employee of a contractor.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.