Enhanced Whistleblower Engagement Act

5/11/2023, 3:46 PM

Summary of Bill HR 3338

Bill 117 HR 3338, also known as the Enhanced Whistleblower Engagement Act, aims to strengthen protections and support for whistleblowers who report wrongdoing within the federal government. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 25, 2021, by Representative Jackie Speier.

The main provisions of the bill include:

1. Establishing a Whistleblower Ombudsman within each federal agency to provide guidance and support to whistleblowers throughout the reporting process. 2. Requiring agencies to develop and implement policies to protect whistleblowers from retaliation, including providing training to employees on whistleblower rights and protections. 3. Enhancing communication between whistleblowers and agency officials by requiring agencies to provide regular updates on the status of whistleblower complaints and investigations. 4. Strengthening the ability of whistleblowers to report wrongdoing anonymously and confidentially, while also ensuring that they have access to legal counsel and other support services. 5. Providing additional resources and support to whistleblowers who face retaliation, including access to counseling and other assistance. Overall, the Enhanced Whistleblower Engagement Act seeks to empower and protect whistleblowers who come forward to report misconduct within the federal government. By establishing clear guidelines and support mechanisms, the bill aims to encourage more individuals to speak out against wrongdoing and hold government officials accountable for their actions.

Congressional Summary of HR 3338

Enhanced Whistleblower Engagement Act

This bill modifies requirements with respect to whistleblower protections for employees of an office of inspector general (OIG).

The bill specifies that the whistleblower protection coordinator in each OIG shall educate that office's employees on specified matters, including prohibitions against retaliation for protected disclosures and rights and remedies against such retaliation.

The bill also specifies that best practices developed by the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency shall include best practices for the handling and consideration of protected disclosures and allegations of reprisal that are internal to an OIG.

Current Status of Bill HR 3338

Bill HR 3338 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since May 19, 2021. Bill HR 3338 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on May 19, 2021.  Bill HR 3338's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform. as of May 19, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 3338

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
16
Democrat Cosponsors
16
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 3338

Primary Policy Focus

Government Operations and Politics

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 3338

Enhanced Whistleblower Engagement ActTo amend the Inspector General Act of 1978 to modify requirements with respect to whistleblower complaints made by employees of an Office of Inspector General, and for other purposes.Enhanced Whistleblower Engagement Act
Start holding our government accountable!

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