Reporting Improper Activities (Whistleblower)

The University of California has a responsibility to conduct its affairs ethically and in compliance with the law. If you suspect that a UC employee is engaged in improper governmental activities, you should know that UC has policies on "blowing the whistle" and protection from retaliation. 

Improper governmental activities include:  

• Violations of state or federal laws or regulations (e.g., corruption, malfeasance, bribery, theft or misuse of government property, fraud, coercion, conversion);
• Economic waste; and
• Gross misconduct, gross incompetence or gross inefficiency.

You can "blow the whistle" by reporting your allegations via phone or in writing using one of these resources: 

• Your Supervisor
• UC Merced's Locally Designated Official
  • Luanna Putney, Associate Chancellor and Senior Advisor to the Chancellor, (209) 201-3491
  • UC Merced Whistleblower Poster 
• UC Systemwide Whistleblower Hotline 
  • Online UC Whistleblower Hotline or call 800-403-4744
  • The hotline is independently operated to ensure anonymous and confidential reporting
• California State Auditor
  • Online Complaint Form or call 800-952-5665
  • Report Improper Activity (Poster)
  • Report Improper Activity (Brochure)
  • For more information about reporting to this outside agency, please see the File a Complaint page on the State Auditor's website 

The University prohibits retaliation against employees who in good faith, report suspected ethical, legal or policy violations. 

For more information about reporting suspected improper activities, please see the following resources: 

• UCOP Whistleblower Website
• Whistleblower FAQ
• UC Systemwide Whistleblower Policy
• UC Whistleblower Protection Policy
• UC Merced Whistleblower Protection Policy Implementation Procedures