A former sergeant of the United States Marine Corps, Christopher “Chris” Michael Throgmorton served on the California Highway Patrol as an officer. Additionally, Chris Throgmorton was appointed as an equal opportunity counselor to ensure fair treatment of all personnel, no matter their gender, disability, or nationality.

According to the US Department of Labor, an equal opportunity officer is responsible for managing and reporting complaints of discrimination. He or she must establish clear procedures for employees to file grievances and ensure full enforcement of regulations.

This process should elucidate types of permissible complaints. For example, an employee can report an individual who he or she feels is violating Section 188 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1988 or Code of Federal Regulations Title 29 Section 37. Both focus on eliminating prejudices from work environments.

Additionally, an equal opportunity officer must address timelines of complaints. The US Department of Labor requires a person to file appropriate paperwork concerning discrimination within 180 days of an incident to have it reviewed. Special extensions are allowed if approved by the Director of the Civil Rights Center.

To learn more about the role of an equal opportunity officer, visit www.dol.gov.