Whistleblowers play a vital role in promoting accountability and transparency by reporting evidence of wrongdoing. The Department of Energy (DOE) values and protects whistleblowers, recognizing their service to both the public and the agency.
Under federal law, DOE employees, contractors, subcontractors, and grantees are shielded from retaliation for making a protected disclosure. Anyone with concerns about misconduct involving DOE employees or programs can report their concerns directly to the DOE OIG Hotline.
The Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA) of 1989 is a key federal law that safeguards employees who report government misconduct. By protecting whistleblowers from retaliation, the WPA encourages individuals to come forward with lawful disclosures.
What the WPA Protects
The WPA protects employees who disclose information they reasonably believe provides evidence of:
- Violations of laws, rules, or regulations
- Gross mismanagement
- Gross waste of funds
- Abuse of authority
- Substantial and specific dangers to public health or safety
Burden of Proof in Retaliation Cases
To establish a claim of retaliation, a whistleblower must demonstrate that their protected disclosure was a contributing factor in the adverse personnel action taken against them. If this threshold is met, the agency must then prove that the action would have occurred regardless of the disclosure, based on other legitimate factors.
Whistleblower Protection Enforcement Mechanisms
Several key agencies ensure whistleblower protections, including:
- Office of Special Counsel (OSC): Investigates retaliation claims and ensures compliance with the Whistleblower Protection Act (WPA).
- Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB): A quasi-judicial agency where federal employees can seek corrective action for whistleblower-related retaliation claims.
Resources for Whistleblowers
For more information on whistleblower protections, refer to:
- Summary of key issues in the Whistleblower Protection Act
- Full Text of the Whistleblower Protection Act
- Compilation of Whistleblower Protection Statutes (2025) – Published by the Congressional Research Service.
These resources provide detailed guidance on legal protections and enforcement processes for whistleblowers.
Contact Information
For assistance or more information, contact the DOE OIG Whistleblower Protection Coordinator:
Email: IGwhistleblowerhelp@hq.doe.gov
The DOE OIG is committed to protecting whistleblowers and fostering a culture of accountability and transparency.
DOE Whistleblower Protection Coordinator
Role of the DOE Whistleblower Protection Coordinator
The Inspector General Act of 1978, as amended, requires the DOE Office of Inspector General (OIG) to designate a Whistleblower Protection Coordinator. This individual plays a critical role in ensuring that whistleblowers are supported, informed, and protected throughout the reporting process. Limitations of the Whistleblower Protection Coordinator
While the Whistleblower Protection Coordinator provides guidance and support, they do not:
- Serve as a legal representative, agent, or advocate for individual whistleblowers.
- Directly intervene in personnel matters or make decisions on retaliation claims.
Their role is strictly advisory, ensuring whistleblowers understand their rights and available options.
Key Responsibilities of the Whistleblower Protection Coordinator
Works with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC), other federal agencies, and non-governmental organizations to promote best practices and strengthen whistleblower protections.
Works with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC), other federal agencies, and non-governmental organizations to promote best practices and strengthen whistleblower protections.
Works with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC), other federal agencies, and non-governmental organizations to promote best practices and strengthen whistleblower protections.
Works with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC), other federal agencies, and non-governmental organizations to promote best practices and strengthen whistleblower protections.
Works with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC), other federal agencies, and non-governmental organizations to promote best practices and strengthen whistleblower protections.