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DSHS/OOS/OJCR is committed to providing an environment that is free from all forms of discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment, retaliation, and other inappropriate behaviors.

File a civil rights complaint

You may also file a complaint by using one of the other contact methods at the bottom of the page.

Our Purpose

Ensuring timely and equitable access to DSHS services and fostering an environment where employees and clients are treated with dignity.
Ensuring equitable investigations of Equal Employment Opportunity and Civil Rights complaints from DSHS employees and clients.
Providing fair and impartial reviews of administrative hearing decisions concerning findings of Adult Protective Services or determinations in public benefits cases.
Supporting a workplace that is free from harassment and discrimination.
Providing independent assessment of the public safety risk of proposed changes in commitment status for patients found Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity or found incompetent to stand trial for a violent offense.
Helping to develop and publish official Department rules and policies that are necessary, fair, understandable, equitable, and consistent.

Who We Are

Advocacy and Community Relations

Advocacy and oversight of conditions for SCC.
Access to DSHS services.

Alternative Dispute Resolution/Third-Party

Reviews complaints submitted by third parties or on behalf of clients, patients, customers, vendors, contractors, or service provider.
Mediation and other dispute resolution techniques to address conflict and promote a respectful and collaborative workplace.

Board of Appeals

Review of administrative hearing decisions concerning findings of Adult Protective Services or determinations in public benefits cases.

Employee Investigations Unit

Investigates employee complaints and allegations addressing discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in the workplace.
Provides liaison assistance between the DSHS administrations and external investigating agencies such as the EEOC or the Washington State Human Rights Commission.

Public Safety Review Panel

Review of public safety risks posed by proposed changes in commitment status for NGRI patients and those found incompetent to stand trial for a violent offense.

Rules and Policies Assistance Unit