How to File a Complaint with the CHRO
CT prohibits illegal discrimination in the areas of employment, housing, public accomodations, and credit transactions. If you experience discrimination in any of these areas, you can file a complaint with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, or the CHRO. The CHRO will investigate your complaint free of charge.
Here's the process:
- File your complaint. You can do this over the phone, by mail, or by visiting one of the CHRO's Regional Offices. Complaints must be filed within 180 days of the reported incident of discrimination.
- Recieve the response from the respondent, or the person/organization you're accusing.
- Wait through the 90-day Merit Assessment Review. This review determines whether or not your case is valid.
- If your case is considered valid, an assigned investigator collects information on your complaint. This investigator is neutral and assesses documents and testimonies from both you and the respondent.
- A decision is made regarding your case. The investigator will decide whether your rights have been violated. This part of the process should be completed within 190 days of the time you make your complaint.
- If your case has been found to have reasonable cause for discrimination, the investigator tries to mediate an agreement between you and the respondent. The purpose of the mediation is to remove the illegal discrimination and restore your rights.
- If a suitable mediation is not reached, you go through a public hearing with a Human Rights Referee. This process is somewhat similar to going to court. After hearing the evidence presented by both sides, the Human Rights Referee will issue a final decision within 90 days after the hearing.
- You can appeal your case if you're not satisified with the decision.
To see the full description of the process, go to the CHRO's complaint page.