Which federal law protects whistleblowers from retaliation in the workplace?

The Whistleblower Protection Act is the federal law specifically designed to safeguard employees who report illegal or unethical practices within their workplaces. It provides protections to whistleblowers from retaliation by their employers, which may include adverse actions such as termination, demotion, or other forms of discrimination based on their disclosures. This law is essential in encouraging individuals to report wrongdoing without fear of losing their jobs or facing other negative consequences.

The other options do not offer the same level of protection for whistleblowers. The Employee Relations Act primarily focuses on labor relations and the rights of employees in union activities. The Fair Labor Standards Act pertains to minimum wage, overtime pay, and child labor protections, not specifically whistleblower protections. Similarly, the Occupational Safety and Health Act centers on workplace safety and health regulations, lacking direct emphasis on protecting individuals who report violations. Thus, the Whistleblower Protection Act stands out as the essential legislation for protecting employees in these situations.