INITIAL PROCESSING
Claim must be filed within 180 days of violation.
Special notification requirements to Members of Congress if there is an allegation of harassment, intimidation, Notice to appropriate Ethics reprisal, or discrimination. Committees.*
The OCWR Executive Director will refer to an appropriate Ethics Committee any “final disposition” (i.e., a mediated settlement or a final decision within OCWR) of a claim that alleges a Member of Congress or a Member’s senior staff member personally engaged in harassment, intimidation, reprisal, or discrimination.
PRELIMINARY REPORT
Preliminary Hearing Officer issues report within 30 days;
an extension of no more than 30 days is allowed.
MEDIATION
- Voluntary, confidential.
- Both parties must request.
- May be requested at several points during the process.
- Length of stage: 30 days, unless extended for additional 30 days.
CIVIL ACTION
A claimant who has not requested a hearing at OCWR or whose claim does not proceed past the preliminary review stage may file a civil complaint in U.S. District Court.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDING BEFORE MERITS HEARING OFFICER
- Must request a hearing at the OCWR no later than 10 days after Preliminary Hearing Officer’s Report.
- Hearing generally will be held within 90 days. Decision by Merits Hearing Officer issued within 90 days of end of hearing.
REVIEW BY OCWR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Appeal must be filed no later than 30 days after Merits Hearing Officer’s decision.
U.S. COURT OF APPEALS
Appeal must be filed no later than 90 days after Board of Directors’ decision.
There is another chart available that reflects the process applicable to most legislative branch employees.
For more information, please visit: OCWR.GOV.
