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Senator Grassley Secures Whistleblower Settlement; OSC Policy on Awards Reinforced

January 27, 2026

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Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), co-founder of the Senate Whistleblower Protection Caucus, announced a successful settlement for Afolabi Siwajuola, a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) employee who blew the whistle by disclosing to the U.S. Office of Special Counsel unlawful hiring practices that cost taxpayers millions. The settlement includes a monetary recognition award in line with OSC's recent policy encouraging agencies to reward whistleblowers for significant contributions.

Mr. Siwajuola's disclosures to OSC led to findings of systemic misclassification at ATF, resulting in improper law enforcement pay and benefits for 108 employees and an estimated $20 million in waste. OSC previously honored Siwajuola with its Public Servant Award and recommended agencies adopt monetary awards for whistleblowers who save taxpayer dollars and strengthen accountability.

“I appreciate ATF's willingness to follow OSC's recommendation for a reward as part of this resolution," said Senior Counsel Charles Baldis.

For more information on whistleblower protections and OSC's award recommendation policy, visit osc.gov.​

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