Governor signs Melendez whistleblower bill into law

News release from Assemblywoman Melissa Melendez's office:

SACRAMENTO – Assemblywoman Melissa A. Melendez (R-Lake Elsinore) announced that Governor Jerry Brown has signed her bill to create the Legislative Employee Whistleblower Protection Act, AB 403.

"This is a momentous occasion for all of California, and particularly legislative staff," said Melendez. "The foundation to any government by and for the people is one rooted in transparency and accountability. And today, the Legislature, with the stroke of the Governor’s pen, just became the example for the nation for whistleblower protection. Victims can now feel empowered that the system is there to protect them for speaking out rather than punishing them."

Assembly Bill 403 received overwhelming bipartisan support, having the bill joint-authored by Assembly Republican Leader Brian Dahle (R-Bieber); Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia (D-Bell Gardens), chair of the Legislative Women’s Caucus; and Assemblywoman Laura Friedman (D-Glendale), Chair of the Joint Committee on Sexual Harassment Prevention and Response, along with 61 co-authors in the Senate and Assembly.

"Without hesitation, Governor Brown gave victims peace of mind and clearly signaled #TimesUp for those who’d retaliate against the voices of truth," said Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia (D-Bell Gardens). "Assemblymember Melendez is to be commended for her foresight and persistence that will usher in a new era of trust and accountability that the Capitol community demands and deserves."

Under previous law, the California Whistleblower Protection Act provided protection to state employees in the executive and judicial branches who report any improper or unethical activity. However, employees of the Legislature were not covered under this act.

Within hours of the California State Assembly unanimously passing AB 403 and sending it to the Governor, it was signed into law.