Sample Grievance Timeline
Your bargaining unit's specific grievance procedure and timeline will be spelled out in your collective bargaining agreement. The timeline described here—a pre-grievance discussion and steps 1 through 3—applies generally to most collective bargaining agreements. You can use this Grievance Worksheet to help you keep track of deadlines.
PRE-GRIEVANCE DISCUSSION
Employees should attempt to resolve problems informally with their immediate supervisor prior to filing a formal grievance.
STEP 1 SUBMISSION
Employee or Union submits in writing to supervisor/designess within the timeline prescribed by the contract. For example, the Step 1 submission may be due within 15 calendar days of the occurrence. You must refer to your bargaining unit's contract for specific timelines.
In cases of suspension or discharge, the grievance must be filed within the contract's prescribed timeline, and the timeline pertains to when the member received the notice of suspension or discharge.
STEP 1 RESPONSE
Director must meet with grievant and/or Union representative within the timeline prescribed by the contract, and the timeline begins at the conclusion of the Step 1 meeting/hearing.
Grievances settled at Step 1 are not precedent setting.
STEP 2 SUBMISSION
To Director of Human Resources, or his/her designee, within the timeline prescribed by the contract. The timline begins upon receipt of the Step 1 response.
STEP 2 RESPONSE
Parties shall meet within the timeline prescribed by the contract or at the next regularly scheduled Step 2 meeting.
Or, by mutual agreement, parties may submit grievance to alternative dispute resolution procedure.
Grievances settled at Step 2 are precedent setting only if both sides agree.
STEP 3 SUBMISSION
If denied at Step 2, the Union, at their discretion, may demand arbitration by filing a demand for arbitration with the American Arbitration Association (AAA) or Federal Mediation & Conciliation Services (FMCS). This is handled by the National.