By KRWG News
New Mexico – Public employees who disclose governmental misconduct will be protected from retaliation under a bill passed by the Senate.
Whistleblower protections also will be given to workers who testify as part of a governmental investigation into wrongdoing.
More than two dozen states have similar laws, according to Sen. Sue Wilson Beffort, a Sandia Park Republican who sponsored the measure.
A worker who faces retaliation can bring a lawsuit for damages, reinstatement to their job and back pay with interest.
The Senate approved the bill Wednesday on a 38-2 vote and sent it to the House.
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The whistleblower protection bill is SB96.
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On the Net:
Legislature: www.nmlegis.gov
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.