MS HB189

Allows whistleblowers who report to state investigative bodies to recover damages in addition to back pay and reinstatement when subjected to workplace retaliation.

Expands remedies available to employees to include injunctive relief, damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney's fees, subject to limitations in Section 11-46-15.

Establishes individual civil liability for governing board members of agencies that violate whistleblower protections, with fines up to $10,000 per violation (or agency executive directors if no board exists).

Permits whistleblower lawsuits in Circuit Court for Hinds County's First Judicial District or the employee's county of residence, requiring proof by preponderance of evidence that retaliation would not have occurred but for the whistleblower disclosure.

Takes effect July 1, 2012.