Reporting Waste In Public Jobs
Idaho Code § 6-2104 and Idaho Code § 6-2105 — no retaliation against a public employee for a good faith report, and 180 days to sue
The protection covers employees of the state and of local governments and other public bodies in the public retirement system.
No retaliation for a good faith report. The employer may not take adverse action because the employee reports in good faith a waste of public funds, property or manpower, or a violation or suspected violation of law, at a time and in a way that gives the employer a reasonable chance to correct it. Taking part in an investigation, hearing or inquiry is protected too.
Good faith means a reasonable basis in fact. It is missing where the employee knew or should have known the report was malicious, false or frivolous.
180 days. An employee may sue for an injunction, actual damages or both within 180 days after the violation, and must show by a preponderance of the evidence that the adverse action was because of the protected report.
Damages include court costs and reasonable attorney's fees. A particular case is a question for a licensed Idaho attorney.
Sources for this section (3)
- Idaho Code § 6-2103 — Definitions
- Idaho Code § 6-2104 — Reporting of governmental waste or violation of law — Employer action
- Idaho Code § 6-2105 — Remedies for employee bringing action — Proof required
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Idaho attorney.