Companies agree to remediate charges of impeding whistleblower communications.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced that seven companies have agreed to pay a collective $3 million to settle claims that they impeded whistleblower communications with the commission. A company taking any action to disrupt direct communications between a whistleblower and the SEC violates federal law, including terminating an employee or imposing any binding agreement to prohibit communications.
“Ensuring that potential whistleblowers can communicate directly with the Commission is a critical part of the SEC’s oversight mandate,” said Creola Kelly, Chief of the SEC’s Office of the Whistleblower.
“The SEC’s whistleblower program strengthens market integrity by providing protection and incentives for those who come forward and report potential violations of the securities laws,” said Director Jason Burt of the SEC’s Denver Regional Office.
The SEC agreed to settle with these companies, stating that all parties are taking remedial actions to address the violations.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Chief Kelly and Director Burt to seek the Lord’s guidance as they head their respective officers.
- For wisdom for SEC officials as they work to ensure compliance with federal whistleblower laws.
Sources: Reuters, Securities and Exchange Commission
