Whistleblower protection; public policy; criminal punishment; fine; civil cause of action; effective date.

HB 3122 strengthens whistleblower protections in Oklahoma by making retaliation against employees who report wrongdoing a punishable offense. It defines retaliation as actions like termination, demotion, or intimidation by public officials, employers, or supervisors, with penalties including up to one year in jail and a $5,000 fine. The bill also allows whistleblowers to sue for economic and emotional damages, plus attorney fees, if they successfully prove retaliation. The law takes effect on November 1, 2026.