Whistleblower protection programs are key in safeguarding workers who expose illegal activities. Whistleblower protection programs ensure that all workers, irrespective of their immigration status, can report violations without fear of retaliation.
U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces various whistleblower statutes to protect workers who report violations of workplace safety. Undocumented workers are also entitled to these protections, ensuring they can file complaints without fearing retaliation.
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
The EEOC protects employees from retaliation when they report discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. This protection extends to undocumented workers.
National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)
The NLRB ensures that workers can join unions without retaliation. This includes undocumented people.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
DHS offers the U Visa and T Visa programs. The U Visa provides legal status to undocumented immigrants who have been suffering. The T Visa aids people in human trafficking who help in investigations or prosecutions.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
The IRS Whistleblower Office rewards individuals reporting tax evasion or fraud. They can help workers no matter their immigration status. They also protect them from immigration enforcement. However, the actions are based on their whistleblowing.
Nation-level whistleblower protection laws also play a significant role in safeguarding workers. Many states have enacted statutes. They offer extra protections beyond federal laws. This makes a more complete safety net for whistleblowers.
These programs and protections emphasize workplace rights, and ensure all workers can report violations without fear.