WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal employees who expose fraud, waste and abuse would receive greater protection against retaliation under legislation approved unanimously by the House.
The Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act passed by voice vote Friday when the House convened for a short session, even though nearly all members are back in their districts to campaign. Provisions of the bill had been worked out in advance.
The bill restores protection for federal whistleblowers that had been removed by the courts.
A key provision would make it easier to discipline federal officials who retaliate against a whistleblower. The bill would expand its coverage by establishing explicit whistleblower protections for Transportation Security Administration employees who provide screening at airports.
The bill is a House-Senate compromise, but the legislation must return to the Senate for final action.
