It is the policy of the City of Philadelphia that the citizens of Philadelphia must have faith in the integrity, openness, competence, and fairness of their government. This government is committed to rooting out waste, fraud, abuse, and harassment, and to maintaining the highest standards of ethical behavior by its officials and employees. Accordingly, it is crucial that City employees, and others, be encouraged to report instances of improper behavior, without fear of reprisal or abuse.

(a) Complaints. Any person may file a complaint with the Inspector General alleging that a City officer or employee has engaged in improper government activity. The Inspector General will investigate, if appropriate, and may refer matters to other agencies, including the Law Department where the Inspector General is unable to investigate. After receiving the Inspector General’s report, the Board of Ethics will provide advice as to recommended action, if any.

(b) Official Retaliation Prohibited. As required by the Pennsylvania Whistleblower Law, no City officer or employee may terminate, demote, suspend or take other similar adverse employment action against any City officer or employee because the officer or employee has in good faith filed a complaint alleging improper activity.

(c) Personal Retaliation Prohibited. The City will not tolerate any City officer or employee engaging in any retaliation of any kind against any City officer or employee because the officer or employee has in good faith filed a complaint as described above. Any City officer or employee found to have engaged in such retaliation shall be subject to discipline.