LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – House Republicans are working on legislation to strengthen protections for state employees who come forward with concerns about government departments.
The House Oversight Committee is considering updates to Michigan’s Whistleblower Protection Act after lawmakers say they’ve heard from dozens of state workers who are too afraid to speak publicly. Committee Chair Rep. Jay DeBoyer (R-Clay) said many employees are hesitant to testify or even meet with legislators because they fear retaliation.
The proposed bills would create new safeguards for government workers, including a $2,000 civil fine for violators,and wage compensation, and reinstatement for anyone wrongfully fired or intimidated in the workplace. Lawmakers say the measures are designed to ensure employees don’t lose their jobs or benefits simply for complying with legislative requests.
A similar bill cleared the legislature in 2020, but Governor Gretchen Whitmer vetoed it, citing concerns about the separation of powers. DeBoyer says the current political climate could change the governor’s stance this time around.
