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ARTICLE · 12 MAY 2014

Senators Grassley, Alexander Question Effectiveness Of DOL’s Whistleblower Protection Program

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Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn) sent a letter to OSHA questioning the effectiveness of OSHA’s Whistleblower Protection Program.

United StatesEmployment and HR
Steven Pearlman
Steven Pearlman
Harris Mufson
Harris Mufson
Alychia Lynn Buchan
Alychia Lynn Buchan
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As reported by the Wall Street Journal, Risk and Compliance Journal, on April 29, Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn) sent a letter to OSHA questioning the effectiveness of OSHA's Whistleblower Protection Program ("WPP").  Considering this in context, it should be noted that in 2009 and 2010, two governmental "watchdogs" released reports critical of the WPP's effectiveness.  Since that time, it has been reported that OSHA, which administers the program, has been overhauling the WPP.  Senators Grassley and Alexander, however, have concerns. 

"We understand that OSHA has made many changes to its whistleblower program in the last four years. However, we have questions about how the program is functioning at this stage," the letter said.  The Senators probe OSHA's overhaul efforts and question why several of the recommendations set forth in the watchdog reports have yet to be implemented.  

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