Can my Employer Force Me to Break the Law?
The Minnesota Whistleblower Act (MWA) protects employees who report illegal activity, or “blow the whistle,” at work. The MWA is also designed to deter employers from retaliating against employees who follow the law. The MWA prohibits employers from discharging, disciplining, threatening, discriminating against, or penalizing an employee because an employee refused to break the law, or reported a violation of law.
For protection under the MWA, the employee must have an objective basis in fact to believe that an employer’s order violates a state law or federal law, rule, or regulation. An employee should also inform their employer that that they are refusing the employer’s order because they believe that it violates the law.
If you believe that your employer has terminated your employment or treated you differently after you refused to break the law, contact us. Our experienced employment law attorneys would be happy to discuss your case and help you understand your legal rights and options.