Final answer:
Complaints to governmental agencies about employers' illegal practices are known as whistle-blowing. Whistleblowers are protected by laws such as the Whistleblower Protection Act and the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act, designed to prevent retaliation against them.
Step-by-step explanation:
Complaints to governmental agencies by employees about employers' illegal practices are known as whistle-blowing. Whistle-blowing occurs when employees notify authorities or the public about illegal, unethical, or unsafe practices at their place of employment. Legislation, such as the Whistleblower Protection Act of 1989 and the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012, offers protections for these individuals, ensuring they cannot be retaliated against for their actions. An example that highlights the importance of whistleblower protections is the Firestone/Ford tire controversy, where tire failures led to accidents and fatalities, resulting in recalls and major financial losses for the companies involved.