Abinanti Introduces Government Whistleblower Protection Legislation

“The discussion about ethics in State government is missing a key component: encouraging whistleblowers to report wrongdoing to law enforcement,” said Assemblyman Tom Abinanti (D-Greenburgh/Mt. Pleasant).

To add to the discussion, Abinanti submitted legislation (A.1137) that would prohibit retaliation against an employee who reports unlawful activity of a public official.

“True transparency and real accountability depends on good people reporting bad conduct,” said Abinanti. “People who do what’s right shouldn’t have to worry about losing their jobs.”

Current law protects employees who disclose that an employer has violated the law where the violation creates a danger to public health or safety, or which constitutes health care fraud. Abinanti’s legislation will expand this protection from retaliation to include those who report bribery, attempted bribery, official misconduct, or defrauding of the government by a public official.

The bill is sponsored in the Senate by Senator Diane Savino (D-Staten Island/Brooklyn).

“We need to encourage employees to report unlawful activity of public officials. This bill will protect those employees,” said the Westchester Assemblyman.