1. If charges are determined to be valid, the parties will be informed that the applicable Division Director, Cabinet Secretary or Agency Head will take action against the harasser to prevent recurrence in the future (the precise action should not be divulged to the complainant.) If charges are determined to be valid, the offender shall face immediate and appropriate disciplinary action, recommended by Human Resources and/or the Office of Management and Budget and imposed by the appropriate Division Director, Cabinet Secretary or Agency Head. Disciplinary action(s) shall be processed in accordance with Merit System Rules/Union Contract where applicable.


  2. If charges are determined to be invalid or highly questionable based on related facts, the individual investigating the charge will document accordingly and relay to the applicable Division Director, Cabinet Secretary or Agency Head. If charges are determined to be invalid, the parties and the applicable Division Director, Cabinet Secretary or Agency Head will be informed of the decision based on the investigation and related facts and notified that no further action will be taken.


  3. If the charges are found to be inconclusive, then the Cabinet Secretary or Agency Head will consult with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget or designee per the appropriate course of action.


  4. The Human Resources Manager, along with the applicable Division Director, Cabinet Secretary or Agency Head (or their designee), will hold a private meeting with each party involved to advise of the results of the investigation. A follow-up interview will be held with the complainant approximately two (2) to four (4) weeks after the decision to ensure no re occurrence and/or retaliation.


  5. The Human Resources Manager will inform the Cabinet Secretary/Agency Head and the applicable Division Director of the results of all harassment complaints.

 

Note: Any employee found to have knowingly and willfully filed false charges of sexual harassment will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.