STEP I
1) Grievant files a grievance within 20 days of occurrence.
2) Grievant, Union and local management meet within 10 days.
3) Local management issues a written decision within 10 days.

STEP II
(From this point forward the Union owns the grievance) 4) Union files appeal to DOCS Labor Relations within 15 days.
5) Meeting with Labor Relations and Union within 10 days.
6) Labor Relations issues decision within 10 days.

STEP III
7) Appeal of Labor Relations decision to Governor’s Office of Employee Relations within 15 days.
8) Appeal may take 4 routes:
(a) Expedited Decision- Where a traditional answer (denial) is expected. GOER issues decision within 10 days. Grievance proceeds to Alternate Dispute Resolution Process or Arbitration as decided by the parties or as stipulated in the contract.
(b) On-site review- Meeting at worksite with Union, Management and GOER, usually within 4 months. No time limit is mandated in the contract. Grievance proceeds to Alternate Dispute Resolution Process or Arbitration as decided by the parties or as stipulated in the contract.
(c) Safety issues referred to the Safety and Health Committee. Grievance can be referred to the conference phase of the Alternate Dispute Resolution Process by either party.
(d) Hold Status- Grievance may be put in hold status by either party for a period of two weeks to gather more information.