WHISTLEBLOWERS are understandably reluctant to come forward for fear of retribution from their employer. Those working for the US government may soon be able to do so with a little more confidence, thanks to a bill passed by the House of Representatives on 14 March.
If enacted, the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act would define the rights of scientists when reporting attempts to twist or suppress research results. Supporters hope it could also lead to more transparency in how government-funded science is conducted.
Government climatologists, drug safety officials and wildlife biologists have all recently raised concerns over how their research is…
