protected disclosure

Introduction

Information that an employee reasonably believed to be:

• evidence of violation of the law, rule or regulation
• gross mismanagement
• gross waste of funds
• an abuse of authority
• a substantial & specific danger to public health & safety

The only exception is disclosure of information specifically prohibited by law or specifically required by Executive Order to be kept secret in the interest of national defense or the conduct of foreign affairs.

• Not all disclosures rise to the level covered under the law
• Minor waste of funds or tirvial wrong-doing or negligence are not considered to be gross waste or mismanagement
• disclosures may be may to any person and need not be completely accurate to be protected

If you believe you have been the victim of whistleblower retaliation, you may:

• report it to the VA IG (Office of Inspector General) 1- 800- 488-8244
• file a written complaint with the US Office of Special Counsel (OSC)