HB 1985 -- Health Care Whistleblower Protection Act

Sponsor:  LeVota

This bill establishes the Health Care Whistleblower Protection
Act which prohibits employers from taking retaliatory action
against employees who disclose or threaten to disclose alleged
prohibited activities or information that the employee reasonably
believes constitutes improper quality of patient care.  Within
one year, an employee may bring a civil action against any
employer violating the provisions of the bill.  The bill allows
the court to issue an injunction to stop the employers' illegal
activity; reinstate the employee's position, benefits, and
seniority rights; and order payment of lost wages, reasonable
litigation costs, attorney fees, and punitive damages.  If an
employee brings an action without basis in law or fact, a court
may order the employee to pay reasonable attorney fees and court
costs.  Employers must conspicuously display notices of the
employee protections provided in the bill.  Employers violating
these provisions may be fined an amount not to exceed $1,000 for
a first occurrence and $5,000 for subsequent occurrences.

Missouri House of Representatives
93rd General Assembly, 2nd Regular Session
Last Updated November 29, 2006 at 9:45 am