Senator Chuck Grassley recently commended the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for overhauling the National Human Trafficking Hotline after a whistleblower exposed serious mismanagement by its previous contractor, Polaris Project. The action has highlighted the importance of strong protections for whistleblowers—individuals who come forward to report wrongdoing within organizations—with the assistance of our Washington, D.C. whistleblower lawyer.
According to reports, the whistleblower disclosed to Grassley and federal authorities that Polaris failed to properly report credible trafficking tips to law enforcement. These failures prompted an investigation, which revealed that nearly 10 percent of reviewed cases were mishandled due to reporting or clerical errors. In response, HHS awarded a new $35 million contract to Compass Connections to manage the hotline for the next five years, replacing Polaris.
Grassley praised the move, emphasizing that oversight will continue to ensure accountability. The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) developed a 90-day transition plan for Polaris to hand over operations and required Compass Connections to improve coordination with law enforcement, service providers, and survivor advocates. The new contract also raises annual funding to $7 million and prioritizes response efforts for individuals in immediate danger or facing active trafficking threats.
This development underscores how vital whistleblowers are in protecting the public interest. Without their courage, systemic failures often remain hidden. But stepping forward can come at great personal and professional risk—something our Washington, D.C. whistleblower attorneys understand deeply.
Providing Invaluable Assistance In Whistleblower Cases
At Eric Siegel Law, we help individuals who expose wrongdoing in both public and private sectors. As our whistleblower retaliation attorneys know, employees who report illegal activity—whether it involves fraud, corruption, or mismanagement—are often subject to retaliation, such as demotion, termination, or blacklisting. We work to hold employers accountable and to safeguard your rights under federal and state whistleblower protection statutes.
We also represent clients under the False Claims Act, where whistleblowers can report fraudulent use of government funds and potentially recover financial awards for their disclosures. Our qui tam lawyers guide individuals through the process confidentially and help them through the legal challenges that come with reporting misconduct.
For those facing retaliation, consulting with our workplace retaliation lawyers can be critical in understanding your legal options. Whether you’ve been penalized for speaking up or are considering coming forward, you deserve experienced support to protect your livelihood. And that’s what we can provide. Collectively, we have 30 years of experience working with clients on similar cases. And since we provide both global and national coverage, we’re able to assist clients regardless of whether their claim falls under state or federal jurisdictions.
At Eric Siegel Law, we take pride in standing beside those who act with integrity to expose wrongdoing and improve systems—just as the recent whistleblower did in helping reform the national trafficking hotline. If you’ve witnessed misconduct and need guidance, contact our Washington, D.C. whistleblower lawyers today. We are here to help you protect your future and uphold justice.