FOR MOST EMPLOYEES IN THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH

INITIAL PROCESSING

Claim must be filed within 180 days of violation.

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.

PRELIMINARY REPORT

Preliminary Hearing Officer issues report within 30 days; an extension of no more than 30 days is allowed.

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.

FOR EMPLOYEES WHO MAKE A PERSONAL CLAIM AGAINST A MEMBER OF CONGRESS

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, reprisal, or discrimination.

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.