The U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) is an independent agency that protects federal employees from prohibited personnel practices, including whistleblower retaliation. It investigates complaints from federal workers who believe they have faced unfair treatment for reporting misconduct or violations of law. The OSC also oversees the enforcement of the Hatch Act, which restricts political activities of federal employees. By ensuring compliance with these laws, the OSC aims to promote a fair and transparent workplace within the federal government, encouraging employees to report wrongdoing without fear of retaliation.