Whistleblower Statute

State law, found at T.C.A. § 50-1-304, prohibits an employer from terminating an employee solely for refusing to participate in an illegal activity or for refusing to remain silent about an illegal activity. Illegal activities are defined as those that are in violation of a state law (either criminal or civil) or any regulation intended to protect the public health, safety or welfare.  Employees who are terminated in violation of this statute may sue the employer for retaliatory discharge. However, if an employee files a frivolous lawsuit for retaliatory discharge the employee may be required to pay the other party’s attorney’s fees and expenses.