Can my employer retaliate against me for reporting illegal activity?

No. California has some of the strongest whistleblower protections in the country. Under Labor Code § 1102.5, employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who report suspected violations of law to a government agency, law enforcement, or a supervisor. Retaliation includes termination, demotion, reduction in hours, pay cuts, reassignment, threats, and other adverse employment actions.

If your employer retaliates against you for whistleblowing, you can file a complaint with the California Labor Commissioner or pursue a civil lawsuit. Remedies may include reinstatement, back pay, front pay, damages for emotional distress, and attorney’s fees.

Additional anti-retaliation protections exist for employees who report workplace safety violations (OSHA complaints), file workers’ compensation claims, report wage theft, or participate in investigations or lawsuits against their employer.