Overview
This section mandates the inclusion of a specific contract clause that informs contractor employees of their legal rights and protections regarding whistleblowing.
Key Rules
- Mandatory Clause: Contracting officers must insert FAR clause 52.203-17, "Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights," in all solicitations and contracts.
- Applicability: The requirement applies broadly across most federal civilian agencies.
- Specific Exemptions: This requirement does not apply to solicitations and contracts issued by:
- The Department of Defense (DoD)
- NASA
- The Coast Guard
- Applicable elements of the intelligence community (as defined in 3.900(a)).
Practical Implications
- Compliance: Contracting officers at civilian agencies must ensure this clause is included in every contract file to protect employee rights and ensure legal compliance.
- Contractor Responsibility: Prime contractors are legally obligated to notify their employees in writing of whistleblower protections under 41 U.S.C. 4712.