Whistleblower Protection: Impediments to the Protection of Military Members
NSIAD-92-125
Published: May 27, 1992. Publicly Released: Jun 08, 1992.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the Department of Defense's (DOD) implementation of the Military Whistleblower Protection Act, which prohibits supervisors from taking retaliatory actions against service members who make certain disclosures to the DOD Inspector General (IG), a service IG, or a member of Congress.
Recommendations
Matter for Congressional Consideration
| Matter | Status | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Since whistleblowers who do not direct their reprisal complaints to DOD IG may not receive the complete protection of the law, Congress may wish to amend the law to ensure that even whistleblowers who make their compliant of reprisal to service IG have the law's protection. |
Closed – Not Implemented
|
Action would require new legislation, which was not initiated after the report was issued. Due to the changing roles of the requester, it is unlikely that further action will occur. |
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should direct DOD IG to inform whistleblowers that they can request to have the matter reviewed by a Board for Correction of Military Records and then the Secretary of Defense. |
Closed – Implemented
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
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Topics
Employee demotionsEmployee transfersLabor relationsInformation disclosureInspectors generalMilitary personnelPersonnel managementProgram abusesStatutory limitationWhistleblowers