Commission staff is working remotely, please leave a message at 206-684-8500, or email EthicsAndElections@seattle.gov for assistance.

The City of Seattle is committed to good government and recognizes employees play a pivotal role in reaching that goal.  Seattle's Whistleblower Code encourages employees to report waste of public funds, unsafe practices and violations of law including violation of the City's Ethics Code. 

The Whistleblower Code contains strong anti-retaliation provisions

City Employees stepping forward in good faith to report an improper governmental action cooperate in an investigation or are mistakenly believed to have reported or cooperated, all have the right to be free from retaliation.

An employee subjected to negative employment consequences, in part from stepping forward, may file a retaliation claim with the independent Ethics and Elections Commission who will objectively investigate the claim.  

Employees have a choice of forums to seek redress a finding of retaliation, including voluntary mediation, administrative hearing or a private lawsuit.

Recent amendments to the City's Ethics Code, prohibits Individual City employees from retaliating against a co-worker. Employees who retaliate against a co-worker could face a Commission fine of up to $5,000 fine, in addition to departmental discipline.

Employees are encouraged to call and seek more information before reporting what they believe to be improper governmental action or alleging retaliation.