Complaints

The Arizona State Personnel Board hears and reviews whistleblower complaints about public service employees in Arizona. If you believe you were subject to retaliation based on a disclosure of information, you have the right to file a complaint. Complaints must be filed within ten (10) business days from the date of the relation, “Complaint Form”.

What is a complaint?

It is a prohibited personnel practice for employees who have control over personnel actions to take retaliatory action  against an employee for the disclosure of information of a matter of public concern by the employee to a public body that the employee reasonably believes evidences  a violation of law or gross mismanagement of monies or authority. “Public body means” the attorney general, the legislature, the governor, a federal, state, or local law enforcement agency, the county attorney, the governing board of a community college, district or school district, the board of supervisors of a county or agency director.

Who can file a complaint?

Any public service employee in Arizona who reasonably believes they were retaliated against for disclosure of information to a public body. The Arizona State Personnel Board serves as the default forum for whistleblower complaints. If you believe you’ve been retaliated against for a disclosure of information, you have the right to file a complaint against the public entity.

How to file a complaint before the Arizona State Personnel Board?

To file a whistleblower complaint, please fill out our online “Appeals and Complaint Form”. Your complaint must be filed within ten (10) business days from the date of the action. Once you’ve completed the online form, you will receive a confirmation email, followed by a staff member reaching out in a timely manner by phone or email to continue the intake process.

What to expect from my complaint

• You can expect a speedy process. We understand this is affecting your employment, and we will work to come to a resolution as quickly as possible so all parties can move forward. On average, complaints take 105-days from the date of receipt until the matter is closed. *Complaint timeframes may vary on a case-by-case basis*
• You can expect seamless customer service and procedural assistance. We understand you’re not an attorney and you may not be able to obtain one.  Don’t worry you’re not alone. Our professional and experienced staff is here to assist you through the process and answer any procedural questions. *The Arizona State Personnel Board CANNOT provide you with legal advice on your matter*
• You can expect a fair and impartial hearing. We pride ourselves on the integrity of our proceedings and carrying out the responsibility and duty of due process at an exceptional level. In doing so, you’ll proceed through a hearing process that allows you to voice your case and know a hearing officer will fairly and impartially render a decision on the matter.
• You can expect a fair and impartial hearing officer. The Arizona State Personnel Board utilizes outside hearing officers who are NOT employees of the State of Arizona. This ensures there is no conflict of interest or bias involved.
• You can expect a Professional Board. It is mandated by statue that each member of the Arizona State Personnel Board be a professional from: Administrators, Directors, Business Professionals, etc. The Board is comprised of members who are knowledgeable, experienced, and have applied practice in personnel matters having conducted personnel matters on their own accord. This establishes a Board that will thoroughly consider the matter and enter an order that carefully considers the evidence and correctly applies the law. You can expect the resulting order to clear, concise, and objective.

 “Appeals and Complaint Timeline Form”