Employees often keep quiet when they are being harassed or when they observe illegal activity in the workplace because they have a strong fear of being fired or harassed in retaliation for their actions. However, it is important for employees to note that protections do exist for those who expose illegal activities such as harassment or criminal activity in the workplace.
Federal laws that protect you from retaliation by your employer include the following:
The laws against retaliation provide protection to both current and former employees.
In addition to the foregoing federal laws, New Jersey has a law called the Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA) that prohibits retaliatory action by an employer for many types of actions including disclosing violations of law, fraud, or criminal activity of the employer, or for participating in an investigation, hearing or inquiry into any illegal activity. Employees who object to or refuse to participate in any activity they believe is illegal, fraudulent, or criminal, or that compromises the public health, safety, welfare, or protection of the environment are protected under CEPA.
A skilled attorney who handles retaliatory and whistleblowing cases on a regular basis can help you resolve any issues that arise out of enforcement of your rights.