The Michigan House and Senate recently adopted state Rep. Julie Alexander’s concurrent resolution reminding state employees of important whistleblower protections and encouraging them to come forward if they have knowledge of any irregularities or suspect activities, the Jackson County lawmaker announced today.

            Alexander, of Hanover, said it is critical the public has confidence that individuals and agencies that violate the law or allocate state funds inappropriately are identified and held accountable. This starts with ensuring state workers who come forward with important information are not discriminated against or put at risk of losing their job.

            “I believe, hearing from those we serve make us better legislators as new policy ideas and priorities come from communicating,” Alexander said. “As a teacher and mom, my experiences have taught me there are always at least two sides of a story. Listening to the other perspectives allows for insight; communication is vital on so many levels.

“Everyone in Jackson County and throughout all of Michigan deserve to know their government is operating in a transparent way. That’s why it’s crucial state employees are reminded of their rights to report any information; our communities deserve to know state government is operating smoothly and honestly.” 

Alexander said when Senate Bill 686 was vetoed by the governor in July, this demonstrated a lack of regard for good government practices and failed to further expand safeguards for state employees interested in protecting the interests of Michigan citizens.  HCR 32 is another chance to remind state employees of their important whistleblower rights.