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SNAP CERTIFICATION MANUAL – SECTIONS 100 TO 900 700 Discrimination 720 Filing a Complaint Discrimination or Rude Treatment

720 Filing a Complaint - Discrimination or Rude Treatment SNAP MANUAL 01/01/07 Any individual who feels that he or she has been the victim of discrimination by DHS or by a DHS employee may file a complaint. Any individual who feels that he or she has been treated rudely by a DHS employee may also file a complaint. Complaints may be filed in any DHS central office or county office location or with the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) Dallas Regional Office. Regardless of where the initial report of discrimination is received, agency employees must advise the complainant that a complaint may be filed with either the state or federal office or with both offices. Any individual may make a complaint of discrimination in person, by telephone or in writing. The use of any form is not a prerequisite for the acceptance of a complaint. However, the individual may be encouraged to complete a Complaint Report (DHS-110).  NOTE: There are two versions of the Complaint Report. The DHS-110 is designed to be completed by the individual making the complaint. The DHS-10 is designed to be used by a DHS worker to record a complaint being made in person (if the individual cannot or will not complete a DHS-110) or over the telephone. All complaints must be filed no later than 180 days from the date of the alleged discriminatory action. Anyone who expresses an interest in filing a complaint may do so without fear of reprisal, intimidation, coercion and/or threats. No one will be adversely affected because he or she has made a charge, testified, assisted, or participated in any manner in an investigation, review, proceeding or hearing under this policy.

721 Contents of Complaint SNAP MANUAL 09/01/94 A complaint of discrimination may be made in person, by telephone or by written communications. Verbal: A complainant may make an allegation in person or through a telephone conversation and refuse or not be inclined to put the allegations in writing. If so, the person to whom the allegation was made must put the complaint in writing.