Bayless v. Community College District No. XIX

M. Sully Bayless appeals the trial court’s ruling that RCW 42.40.050, which authorizes actions for damages for unlawful retaliation against whistleblowers, does not apply retroactively. We hold the 1992 amendment was retroactive and remand for a determination of actual damages.

Mr. Bayless was formerly the director of admissions and registrar at Columbia Basin College. In February 1985, Mr. Bayless contacted the state auditor pursuant to the _ "whistleblower” statute, RCW 42.40, to inform the auditor of what he perceived to be improprieties in the operation and conduct of the College. In May…