The objective of our audit was to determine whether the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) dismissed discrimination complaints in accordance with applicable policies and procedures. Specifically, we determined whether (1) complaints initially dismissed as a result of the March 2018 revision to OCR’s Case Processing Manual (CPM) have been reopened and reviewed and (2) the revised complaint dismissal process was conducted as provided in OCR’s November 2018 revision to the CPM.
We were unable to determine whether complaints that were dismissed because of the March 2018 CPM revisions had been reopened and reviewed. We did find that OCR needs to improve its tracking related to the reopening of complaints previously dismissed under Section 108(t) of the March 2018 CPM. We found no indication that complaints were not being dismissed in accordance with revisions made to the November 2018 CPM.
We made six recommendations, including that it establish a process that clearly links all complaints that had been previously dismissed under 108(t) to directed investigations or other related actions and ensure all previously dismissed complaints under 108(t) have been reopened as stated or otherwise appropriately resolved; clearly define new policies prior to implementation and provide adequate and documented training; maintain all information and records as required; and clarify policy with regard to the circumstances under which dismissal of complaints where investigations have been completed or are in resolution would be deemed appropriate, considering resources expended.
Not applicable
See other OIG reports on the Office for Civil Rights.