In 2013, the federal government enacted a pilot program, effective until January 1, 2017, providing protections for employees against reprisal for certain whistleblowing activities in connection with federal grants and contracts.  The pilot program was established in 41 U.S.C. 4712, Section 828 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013. Institutions such as MSU receiving federal contracts, subcontracts, and grants are required to provide a notice to all employees of their rights and remedies under the pilot program:

 

MSU NOTICE TO EMPLOYEES CONCERNING WHISTLEBLOWER RIGHTS AND REMEDIES UNDER FEDERAL PILOT PROGRAM FOR ENHANCEMENT OF EMPLOYEE WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION (41 U.S.C. 4712)

 

In addition, MSU has an independent avenue for confidential reporting of concerns about suspected legal, regulatory, or policy violations at the MSU Compliance Hotline (EthicsPoint) website or 855-753-0486.