https://citizenactiondefense.org/app/uploads/2024/06/240621-Press-Release-Whistleblower-Suit.pdf
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 21, 2024
Judge Finds Legal Merit in Whistleblower Suit, Ruling in Favor of CADF Against WSDOT’s Motion to Dismiss
Both sides presented their arguments to Judge Egeler in Thurston County Superior Court this morning
Olympia, Washington — June 21, 2024 — This morning, the Citizen Action Defense Fund (CADF) won against the Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) and the Governor’s Office of Financial Management’s (OFM) Motion to Dismiss in Scott Smith’s Whistleblower lawsuit against them.
The case is now moving forward against WSDOT and they are compelled to produce discovery within 30 days.
This ruling is in contrast to the investigation report that WSDOT paid for, and is in line with CADF’s assertion that the government cannot – and should not – punish state employees simply for doing their job.
“I think the court’s ruling today sends a great message to thousands of state employees that the government cannot retaliate against employees for refusing to comply with the state’s attempts to thwart transparency and accountability,” said Jackson Maynard, Executive Director and Counsel to the Citizen Action Defense Fund. “We are happy to be representing Scott in this and we are confident the discovery process will further demonstrate the merit of our claims.”
“This isn’t just about me – it’s about state employees everywhere,” said Scott Smith. “I look forward to my day in court.”
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For more information:
Jackson Maynard
Executive Director, Citizen Action Defense Fund
Cell: (850) 519-3495
Email: [email protected]