WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION POLICY
1. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This The Organization for the Proliferation of Space Studies whistleblower protection policy is made and
effective as of 05/20/2019.
2. PURPOSE.
The Organization for the Proliferation of Space Studies wants its employees to feel free to report good
faith concerns about unlawful activities in the workplace, including unlawful conduct by other associates,
unsafe working conditions, and unfair labor practices. All employees, including board members, staff,
executives, and volunteers, should know that they will not face retaliation for violations reported
according to this policy.
3. REPORTING VIOLATIONS.
To report suspected violations, please write, email, or call one of the following resources:
(a) Compliance Officers. Compliance officers are individuals who are responsible for reviewing and
investigating reported violations. The Organization for the Proliferation of Space Studies has appointed
the following associates to serve as compliance officers. Suspected violations can be reported to one of
the following compliance officers:
(i) Katrina A. Harkness 563-447-0151 proliferationofspacestudies@gmail.com.
(b) Alternative Reporting Options. If you feel uncomfortable reporting suspected violations to one of
the compliance officers, or feel that your report has not been addressed properly, contact the Chief
Executive Officer at 563-340-0286 or grantharkness@gmail.com.
4. ANONYMOUS REPORTS.
(a) Reporters seeking 100% anonymity should report suspected violations by letter with no identifyingdetails.
(b) Although The Organization for the Proliferation of Space Studies will use its best efforts to maintain
the anonymity of reporters, in certain cases an individual's identity may need to be disclosed to conduct a
thorough investigation, to comply with the law, or to provide accused individuals their legal rights of
defense.
5. CONTENTS OF REPORT.
In general, a report should contain as much information as possible, including the facts and dates that led
you to suspect that a violation occurred. Although you are not required to give your name in your report,
contact information will allow the compliance officer to follow up with you with further questions.
6. ANONYMITY AND CONFIDENTIALITY.
Regardless of the method you use to report suspected violations, The Organization for the Proliferation of
Space Studies will make every effort to keep your report confidential. However, the degree of anonymity
possible will depend on the reporting method you choose. For example, if you report a suspected violation
by telephone, the compliance officer may recognize your voice. Please select the reporting method that
supports your desired level of anonymity.
7. INVESTIGATING AND RESOLVING REPORTS.
(a) Documentation. When a report is received, the compliance officer will create a file for the suspected
violation, and will keep all documentation in that file.
(b) Timeframe. Investigation of violations shall begin within 7 days of receipt of the report. Every effort
shall be made to investigate and resolve reports promptly.
8. COMPLIANCE OFFICERS' DUTIES.
Compliance officers shall use their best efforts to investigate thoroughly and with consideration for the
reporter all reports of suspected violations. Compliance officers must report annually on the submission
and resolution of these matters to the board.
9. GOOD FAITH.
The Organization for the Proliferation of Space Studies encourages all of its associates to report
workplace conduct that they believe violates applicable laws and regulations. The Organization for the
Proliferation of Space Studies may take disciplinary actions against associates who make unfounded
allegations proved to have been falsely or maliciously made.
10. NO RETALIATION.
The Organization for the Proliferation of Space Studies will not tolerate retaliation against associates who
report violations pursuant to this policy. Good faith reporters can be assured that no matter the
investigation's outcome, they will not face adverse employment consequences, discrimination,
harassment, or threats as a result of their reports. A whistleblower who believes that he or she is being
retaliated against must contact the Chief Executive Officer at 563-340-0286 or grantharkness@gmail.com
. A whistleblower's entitlement to protection against retaliation does not include immunity for personal
wrongdoing that is alleged and investigated.
11. OTHER LAW.
Nothing in this policy may be construed in a way that conflicts with any reporting obligations or
protections afforded by state or federal law.