Senators want whistleblower protections for auto employees

Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) introduced a bill Thursday to incentivize auto-manufacturing employees to report defects.

The senators called for the legislation in response to the recall of nearly 8 million Takata airbags. Takata airbags were found to explode in some cases when they were deployed in humid conditions. They’ve been linked to five deaths.

{mosads}Earlier this year, there was also a recall for faulty ignition switches.

“By encouraging employees in the auto sector to speak up about auto safety problems, we can help prevent injuries and even deaths for American drivers,” said Thune. “This bill will ensure that more Americans are aware of faulty parts in their vehicles sooner and better protect the traveling public.”

The bipartisan legislation will likely be a top priority for Thune next year as he takes the helm of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.

Nelson said the whistleblower protections would help encourage employees to come forward sooner, possibly saving lives.

“It took years for problems with faulty ignitions and defective airbags to fully come to light,” Nelson said. “If ever there was a time to encourage industry insiders to speak out, it is right now.”

Keith Laing contributed to this report.