Title: An act relating to contractors with the state.

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

Sponsors: House Committee on State Government Operations & Accountability (originally sponsored by Representatives Haigh, Nixon, Hudgins, Jarrett, Cody, Haler, Santos and Morrell).

Brief History: Passed House: 2/11/06, 96-0.

Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections:

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS

Staff: Mac Nicholson (786-7445)

Background: The state whistle-blower protection program was established to encourage state employees to disclose improper governmental action and to provide protection to employees who report improper action. Any whistle-blower who has been subject to retaliation has a cause of action for remedies provided under the law against discrimination, including injunctive relief, actual damages, and reasonable attorneys' fees.

The Human Rights Commission has the authority to investigate complaints alleging unfair practices, and it is an unfair practice for a government agency or manager to retaliate against a whistle-blower.

Summary of Bill: The definition of employee under the whistle-blower statutes is modified to include an individual employed by a contractor who holds a contract with the state.

It is an unfair practice for a contractor who holds a contract with the state to retaliate against a whistle-blower.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.