Wednesday, March 1, 2006 For More Information:

Rep. Reichert, 515-281-3221

WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION BILL CLEARS HOUSE COMMITTEE

Des Moines, Iowa – State Representative Nathan Reichert of Muscatine was pleased the House took action to protect state employees who provide information to legislators about their department. The bill, which Reichert co-sponsored, provides 'whistleblower' protection to state employees and was approved by a House committee earlier this week.

“Employees who provide information to legislators deserve protection from their superiors,” said Reichert. “As legislators, we need to hear from state employees. If there is a problem in a state agency, it is our duty to ask tough questions and find solutions. State workers must be able to talk to us openly without fear of losing their job or being demoted.”

House File 2038 passed the House State Government Committee on Tuesday.  The bill prohibits a person from taking adverse personnel action against a state employee who discloses any information to a member of the Iowa Legislature.

The bill is now eligible for debate by the full House.