Whistleblower Protection Under New York Labor Law §740

New York dramatically expanded its whistleblower statute in 2022, offering some of the strongest protections in the country for employees who expose illegal or dangerous practices. Whether you work in healthcare, tech, education, or hospitality, Labor Law §740 now shields you from employer retaliation when you speak up.

What Does §740 Cover?

The amended law protects workers who:

• Disclose or threaten to disclose an employer’s illegal activity, policy, or practice
• Provide information to a government agency or law enforcement
• Testify or intend to testify in an investigation or hearing
• Object to or refuse participation in illegal conduct

Covered wrongdoing includes any violation of a state, federal, or local law, rule, or regulation—or any activity that poses a “substantial and specific danger” to public health or safety.

Who Is Protected?

All employees, former employees, and independent contractors who perform services for a New York employer. There is no longer a requirement that the employee first report internally before contacting authorities.

Prohibited Retaliation

Employers may not:

• Terminate, demote, or suspend you
• Threaten to report immigration status
• Blacklist you in the industry
• Reduce hours, pay, or responsibilities
• Harass or intimidate you or your family

Required Notice

Employers must post a §740 whistleblower notice in the workplace. Failure to post can strengthen your claim.

Statute of Limitations

You have two years from the date of the retaliatory act to file suit—double the old 1-year deadline.

Available Damages

• Back pay and front pay
• Reinstatement or equivalent job
• Compensation for emotional harm
• Civil penalties up to \$10,000 and punitive damages
• Attorney’s fees and costs

Building Your §740 Case

1. Document the wrongdoing: Emails, photos, internal memos, or witness statements.
2. Keep a timeline: Note when you reported and when retaliation occurred.
3. Save performance records: Show your job was secure before you blew the whistle.

Why Leeds Brown Law?

Our firm has recovered millions for whistleblowers in healthcare fraud, municipal corruption, and workplace-safety cases. We know how to leverage §740, federal statutes, and common-law claims to maximize your recovery.