Nebraska Whistleblower Law
Whistleblowers protected under common law “public policy” tort.
Court Decisions:
- Schriner v. Meginnis Ford Company, 421 N.W.2d 755 (Neb. 1988)
- Wendeln v. Beatrice Manor, Inc., 712 N.W.2d 226 (Neb. 2006)
- Simonsen v. Hendricks Sodding & Landscaping, Inc., 558 N.W.2d 825 (Neb. Ct. App. 1997)
Statutes:
- NE Code § 81-2702–2711 (public employees)
- NE Code § 48-1114 (opposition to unlawful practice, participation in investigation, discrimination prohibited)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Nebraska have a False Claims Act (FCA)?
Yes. Healthcare frauds are covered under the Nebraska Medicaid False Claims Act, which outlaws frauds against the state’s Medicaid program.
Does the Nebraska law have a whistleblower provision?
Yes. In Nebraska, a private person with knowledge of a false claim can bring a civil action on behalf of the United States Government to recover the funds paid by the Government as a result of the false claims. The whistleblower will receive a portion of these recovered funds, which may be reduced if it is found that they planned or initiated the fraud.
Does Nebraska recognize the public policy exception for wrongful termination?
Yes. Under Nebraska law, employers cannot terminate employees for any reasons that violate a public policy mandate.
