A whistleblower is a person who reports illegal or unethical activity in the workplace. In the state of California, whistleblower laws exist to protect these employees from retaliation. A former middle school principle in another state has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against the school district over allegations that she was retaliated against and fired.
The lawsuit alleges violations of whistleblower protection laws as well as disability discrimination. According to the lawsuit, the plaintiff learned during a meeting that the district failed to pay overtime wages to some of the staff. The lawsuit said the plaintiff objected and told her superiors that they were violating wage laws. The plaintiff also claims that the district was keeping certain auditors away from buildings.
Allegedly, it was later disclosed to the woman’s superiors that she was under a doctor’s care due to experiencing mental health problems brought on by her job. Not long after this, the lawsuit says the plaintiff was terminated without cause. The plaintiff claims that she was fired in retaliation for her role as a whistleblower as well as for her disability. The district also disclosed false allegations to several local media outlets, the woman claimed. The plaintiff seeks damages for mental anguish, emotional distress and loss of income.
Employees in California and across the country have the right to speak up when they witness violations or illegal acts in the workplace. Those who experience retaliation for doing the right thing could benefit by seeking the services of a legal representative. An experienced attorney can provide guidance and help victims pursue rightful compensation.