Final answer:
a. True
Whistle-blowers are employees who report unethical or illegal actions within their organization, and numerous laws, including the Whistleblower Protection Act, support their rights. These measures are crucial for internal oversight and maintaining organizational integrity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Whistle-blowers are indeed employees who report ethical or legal violations committed within their organization, making the statement true. In the context of governance and corporate ethics, over time several legislations, such as the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, the Whistleblower Protection Act of 1989, and the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012, have been enacted to protect these individuals from retaliation and encourage a culture of transparency and accountability. These laws recognize the unique position of insiders to identify and report on misconduct and provide safeguards against repercussions that may discourage them from coming forward.
The importance of whistle-blower protections is underscored by the potential impact of organizational misdeeds on public safety and confidence. A prime example is the Firestone/Ford tire controversy, which highlighted how cost-cutting measures could lead to severe safety risks and long-term financial and reputational damage to companies involved. The legislation works to promote meaningful oversight within organizations and ensures that employees can raise concerns about issues that may pose risks to employee health and safety without fear of losing their jobs.