Fedweek

The Office of Special Counsel, which investigates and prosecutes prohibited personnel practice violations in the federal workplace—notably retaliation for whistleblowing—has started a mediation program designed to settle disputes before they move through the formal process, which often can be lengthy and highly contentious. OSC will choose complaints that seem appropriate for mediation and if the parties agree, the case will be referred to a neutral mediator trained in civil service law. The mediator will not be able to impose a settlement but could help the two sides reach one. OSC believes such a system could resolve complaints in fewer than 100 days. If no settlement is reached, the regular complaint investigation process would take over.