California · Government Code

GOV §9149.33: (a) A Member of the Legislature or legislative employee shall not directly or indirectly use or attempt to use that individual’s official authority or influence for the purpose of interfering with the

Misdemeanor

What this law says, in plain English

Legislature members and legislative employees cannot use their official authority to interfere with a legislative employee's right to make protected disclosures. Violations carry up to $10,000 in fines and up to one year in county jail, plus potential civil liability.

Read the full statutory text

(a) A Member of the Legislature or legislative employee shall not directly or indirectly use or attempt to use that individual’s official authority or influence for the purpose of interfering with the right of a legislative employee to make a protected disclosure. (b) An individual who violates this section is subject to a fine not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000) and imprisonment in a county jail for a period not to exceed one year. (c) In addition to all other penalties, rights, or remedies provided by law, an individual or entity that uses or attempts to use its official authority or influence for the purpose of interfering with the right of a legislative employee to make a protected disclosure is liable in a civil action for damages brought by a legislative employee. (d) This section shall not be construed to authorize an individual to disclose information the disclosure of which is prohibited by law.

Verify at the official source: California legislative text

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.