C-700 Whistleblower Protection

The President/District Director shall establish procedures regarding the reporting and investigation of suspected unlawful activities by college Employees, and the protection from retaliation of those who make such reports in good faith or assist in the investigation of such reports. For this Policy and any implementing procedures, unlawful activity refers to any activity — intentional or negligent — that violates state or federal law, local ordinances, or college policy.

The procedures shall provide that:

1. Individuals are encouraged to report suspected incidents of unlawful activities without fear of retaliation.

2. Such reports are investigated thoroughly and promptly.

3. Remedies are applied for any unlawful practices.

4. Protections are provided to those Employees who, in good faith, report these activities or assist the College in its investigation.

Furthermore, college Employees shall not:

1. Retaliate against an Employee or applicant for employment who has made a protected disclosure, assisted in an investigation, or refused to obey an illegal order.

2. Retaliate against an Employee or applicant for employment because the Employee or applicant is a family member of a person who has made a protected disclosure, assisted in an investigation, or refused to obey an illegal order.

3. Directly or indirectly use or attempt to use the official authority or influence of their position to interfere with the right of an applicant or an Employee to make a protected disclosure to the College.

The College will not tolerate retaliation and will take whatever action may be needed to prevent and correct activities that violate this Policy, including discipline of those who violate it up to and including termination.