New whistleblower protection act enacted

The President has signed the Whistleblower Protection Act, outlining safeguards for individuals disclosing legal violations in work contexts. The law defines whistleblowers broadly, encompassing employees, contractors, entrepreneurs, and others.

Key provisions include:

• Conditions for whistleblower protection.

• Measures to safeguard whistleblowers.

• Establishment of internal reporting procedures.

• Reporting violations to public authorities.

• Roles of the Ombudsman and public authorities.

• Exclusions for classified and certain confidential information.

Whistleblowers can report internally, externally, or publicly, and are shielded from retaliation. Retaliation includes job termination, demotion, or pay cuts. Offenders face fines or imprisonment. The Act takes effect in stages, with external reporting provisions delayed by six months. It aims to enhance transparency and accountability across various sectors, including corruption, public health, and environmental protection.

Source: inwestycje.pl