AB 2256 - California Legislature Whistleblower Protection Act

• Extends whistleblower protections to California Legislature Members and employees by prohibiting retaliation for reporting improper governmental activity or refusing illegal orders

• Establishes a complaint filing process allowing current, former, or prospective legislative employees to file written complaints with designated supervisors or committees within one year of alleged violations

• Assigns the Fair Political Practices Commission to administer the act, receive allegations through mail and internet portal, and investigate or refer matters to Senate/Assembly Rules Committees, the Attorney General, or district attorneys

• Creates civil and criminal penalties including civil damages with potential punitive damages, fines up to $10,000, and up to one year county jail imprisonment for intentional violations

• Requires shift in burden of proof in civil cases once protected activity is shown as a contributing factor, placing onus on the offending party to prove legitimate, independent reasons for the action