Whistleblower Information.pdf

This document is whistleblower information guidance for employees of Department of Justice (DOJ) contractors, subcontractors, grantees, subgrantees, and personal services contractors.

Federal law protects employees from reprisal for whistleblowing activities. Under Title 41, United States Code, Section 4712, it is illegal for employers to discharge, demote, or discriminate against employees for making protected whistleblower disclosures. Additionally, Presidential Policy Directive (PPD-19) prohibits retaliatory actions affecting access to classified information in response to protected whistleblowing. The DOJ Office of the Inspector General (OIG) holds jurisdiction to investigate allegations of reprisal for whistleblowing by contractor and grant employees. Protected disclosures include information reasonably believed to constitute evidence of gross mismanagement of federal contracts or grants, gross waste of federal funds, abuse of authority, substantial and specific danger to public health or safety, or violations of law, rules, or regulations related to federal contracts or grants. To receive protection, disclosures must be made to a Member of Congress, congressional committee representative, the OIG, the Government Accountability Office (GAO), a federal employee responsible for contract or grant oversight, an authorized DOJ official or law enforcement agency, a court or grand jury, or a management official of the contractor, subcontractor, or grantee with responsibility to investigate misconduct. Employees suspecting retaliation may file complaints with the OIG, which will investigate unless the complaint is frivolous or previously addressed. The OIG provides reporting channels including a website (https://oig.justice.gov/hotline), hotline at (800) 869-4499, fax at (202) 616-9881, and mailing address at 1425 New York Avenue, N.W., Suite 7100, Washington, D.C. 20530-2001. Non-disclosure agreements cannot restrict communication with the OIG.