Attachment C-Whistleblower Notice.pdf

Attachment C is a Whistleblower Notice document from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that outlines protections and procedures for federal employees, contractors, subcontractors, grantees, and subgrantees who report potential wrongdoing. The document details specific categories of reportable misconduct, including gross mismanagement of federal funds, abuse of authority, substantial dangers to public health or safety, and violations of laws or regulations related to federal contracts or grants.

The notice explains that whistleblowers are protected under 41 U.S.C. § 4712 and can make disclosures to various entities, including Members of Congress, the Office of Inspector General (OIG), the Government Accountability Office (GAO), federal employees responsible for contract oversight, and other authorized officials. The document provides guidance on filing complaints, emphasizing that individuals who report potential misconduct should not face retaliation. For those seeking to make a complaint, the notice directs individuals to complete an OIG Hotline form and provides contact information for the USDA's Whistleblower Protection Coordinator (WPC).