The California Whistleblower Protection Act
The Bureau of State Audits administers California's Whistleblower Hotline (800-952-5665). The hotline enables state employees and the public to report improper acts committed by state agencies, departments, or employees, as defined by law.
What do we investigate?
- Illegal acts, such as theft, fraud, or conflicts of interest by state employees.
- Misuse or abuse of state property, including state vehicles, buildings, or equipment; or state time by state employees.
- Gross misconduct, incompetence, or inefficiency by state employees.
What do we not investigate?
- Improper activities by local or federal employees or entities.
- Improper activities by private businesses or organizations.
What do we need before we can initiate an investigation?
- We do not undertake formal investigations without having a basis for believing there is merit to the complaint in order to protect the identity and reputation of individuals incorrectly accused of committing improper governmental activities.
- Because we do not undertake formal investigations without adequate cause, we need evidence to corroborate the allegation(s) such as documents, witnesses, and other specific and relevant information. We need copies of all evidence you have that convinces you that an improper governmental activity has occurred. We will not begin an investigation based solely on a letter or phone call.
- Investigating improper governmental activities is more difficult if complaints are filed anonymously because of the difficulty of obtaining evidence to corroborate the alleged improper activity before we begin a formal investigation. If you choose to file your complaint anonymously, be sure to provide specific and relevant information including the first and last names of any individuals mentioned, their contact information, and the location address at which the improper activity is occurring. See our complaint form for additional guidance.
What can the State Auditor do if we substantiate improper activities?
- Issue confidential reports to the head of the employing agency.
- Issue confidential reports to any authority, such as the attorney general or legislative committees, having jurisdiction over the subject involved.
- Issue public reports, keeping identities confidential.
- We do not have enforcement power.