(a) Informal inquiry.

(1) NASA will investigate complaints that are unresolved after mediation or are reopened because of a violation of a mediation agreement.

(2) As part of the initial inquiry, NASA will use informal fact finding methods, including joint or separate discussions with the complainant and recipient to establish the facts, and, if possible, settle the complaint on terms that are mutually agreeable to the parties. NASA may seek the assistance of any involved State agency.

(3) NASA will put any agreement in writing and have it signed by the parties and an authorized official at NASA.

(4) The settlement shall not affect the operation of any other enforcement effort of NASA, including compliance reviews and investigation of other complaints which may involve the recipient.

(5) The settlement is not a finding of discrimination against a recipient.

(b) Formal investigation. If NASA cannot resolve the complaint through informal means it will develop formal findings through further investigations of the complaint. If the investigation indicates a violation of these regulations, NASA will attempt to obtain voluntary compliance. If NASA cannot obtain voluntary compliance, it will begin enforcement as described in §1252.405.

[50 FR 13311, Apr. 4, 1985, as amended at 68 FR 51352, Aug. 26, 2003]