Identical to S 127, filed 2/25/19.

Amends GS 126-84, expanding the state policy set out in Article 14 regarding the protection of state employees for reporting improper government activities. Now includes that state employees be free of intimidation or harassment when providing testimony or statements to agents or employees of legislative panels designated to conduct inquiries on behalf of legislative panels. 

Amends GS 126-85, regarding protections from retaliation for reporting improper government activity described in GS 126-84 or refusing to carry out a directive that constitutes a violation of State or federal law. Expands the protections of Article 14 set out in GS 126-85 to include State employees who report any activity described in GS 126-84 to a legislative panel or an agent or employee of a legislative panel authorized by GS 120-19 (requires State officers, agents, and entities to furnish data and information to legislative committees or commissions upon request).

Amends GS 120-19, expanding the clarifying provision which specifies those with authority to request State officers, agents, and entities to furnish all information and data within their possession or ascertainable from their records. Adds any legislative panel or an agent or employee of a legislative panel to those who may request such data or information be furnished to the General Assembly, as specified (currently specifies any individual member, a standing committee, or a standing committee chair).