Claire Beniga, Author at Keller Grover

Contractors can be liable for subcontractors’ prevailing wage fraud: What workers on public projects should know

A recent court settlement offers a hopeful view of government remedies for underpaid workers — and should serve as a warning to companies that turn a blind eye to fraud. The particular case involved public construction projects in Massachusetts, but California has similar laws — and a much bigger budget for these projects, thus more opportunities for violations by contractors — so the situation is a helpful example. The particular points at issue: Construction contractors paying workers … [Read more...]

‘Pervasive fraud’ in crypto drives need for whistleblowers

Crypto/digital asset schemes drove a record number of whistleblower tips to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission during the past year. The CFTC Whistleblower Program, established under the Dodd-Frank Act, awarded $16 million to seven whistleblowers for their help during the year that ended Sept. 30. More than $15 million went to two whistleblowers who provided significant information and help for separate, successful enforcement cases. In its annual Whistleblower Program report, … [Read more...]

Feds Get Aggressive Against Workplace Harassment

Electric car trailblazer Tesla has found itself in the spotlight, but not for its vehicles — rather, a federal workplace watchdog alleges that Tesla tolerated pervasive mistreatment of Black employees and retaliated against those who complained. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission recently filed a lawsuit against the automaker, saying that mistreatment of Black employees at Tesla’s Fremont, California manufacturing facilities had persisted at least since 2015. The employees faced … [Read more...]

The Many Faces of Whistleblower Retaliation, And Your Protections

The courageous whistleblowers who stand up against wrongdoing at work are doing the public a valuable service — but the companies whose actions are being reported may not see it that way. Under the various whistleblower laws, retaliation typically is prohibited and could result in more sanctions for the reported company. But what exactly is retaliation? In a nutshell, retaliation encompasses any adverse action against the whistleblower for engaging in protected activity (see more from the … [Read more...]

I Saw Something Fishy at Work: How Can I Become a Whistleblower?

Few people expect to become whistleblowers — until they’re confronted with illegal actions in their workplace and realize they need to speak up. How do you approach something as significant as reporting wrongdoing by your employer? At Keller Grover, we specialize in helping whistleblowers. While we understand your questions and concerns might seem overwhelming, we’re here to help you navigate the process. Here are 5 things to consider if you’re faced with the question of whether to become … [Read more...]