Wrongful Termination in Ohio
Ohio is generally an at-will state, but some firings are illegal. Here are the exceptions, retaliation protections and where to file.
Short answer: An employee who learns at work of a legal violation the employer can fix, and reasonably believes it is a crime likely to cause imminent physical harm or a public health or safety hazard, a felony, or an improper political solicitation, must first notify a supervisor orally and then in… Ohio Rev. Code § 4113.52
| Whistleblower and retaliation protection | An employee who learns at work of a legal violation the employer can fix, and reasonably believes it is a crime likely to cause imminent physical harm or a public health or safety hazard, a felony, or an improper political solicitation, must first notify a supervisor orally and then in writing. If the employer does not act within 24 hours, the employee may report to prosecutors, police or the proper regulator. Employers may not discipline or retaliate for reports made this way. The employee may sue within 180 days for reinstatement, back pay, benefits and attorney's fees. The employee must make a reasonable, good-faith effort to check that the report is accurate. Source: Ohio Rev. Code § 4113.52 |
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| Job discrimination complaints | Ohio Civil Rights Commission. State law covers employers with four or more employees in Ohio (plus state and local government). A charge must be filed in writing, under oath, within two years of the discriminatory act. In most cases a charge must be filed with the Commission before suing in court. |
Where to get help in Ohio
More Ohio employment law
- Minimum Wage in Ohio
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in Ohio
- Paid Sick Leave in Ohio
- All Ohio employment law rules
FAQ
Is it illegal to fire someone for reporting a violation in Ohio?
An employee who learns at work of a legal violation the employer can fix, and reasonably believes it is a crime likely to cause imminent physical harm or a public health or safety hazard, a felony, or an improper political solicitation, must first notify a supervisor orally and then in writing. If the employer does not act within 24 hours, the employee may report to prosecutors, police or the proper regulator. Employers may not discipline or retaliate for reports made this way. The employee may sue within 180 days for reinstatement, back pay, benefits and attorney's fees. The employee must make a reasonable, good-faith effort to check that the report is accurate.
Where do I file a job discrimination complaint in Ohio?
Ohio Civil Rights Commission. State law covers employers with four or more employees in Ohio (plus state and local government). A charge must be filed in writing, under oath, within two years of the discriminatory act. In most cases a charge must be filed with the Commission before suing in court.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.