US HB7824

Extends whistleblower protections to employees, contractors, subgrantees, and agents of state/local governments who report misuse, waste, fraud, or abuse of federal funds

Prohibits retaliation against whistleblowers, including termination, demotion, pay reduction, harassment, or other adverse personnel actions

Establishes tiered criminal penalties for retaliation: up to $50,000 fine for negligent retaliation; up to $100,000 fine and 1 year imprisonment for knowing retaliation; up to $250,000 fine and 5 years imprisonment for intentional retaliation to conceal fund misuse or for personal gain

Requires state and local governments to certify compliance with whistleblower protections as a condition of receiving federal financial assistance

Authorizes Federal agencies and Inspectors General to refer retaliation cases to the Attorney General for criminal prosecution, with non-compliance potentially resulting in suspension or termination of federal funding