Final answer:
An individual must contact the EEO office within 45 calendar days of the known alleged discriminatory act or personnel action, which is true. The period is mandated by Title VII and expanded upon by the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act for discriminatory compensation cases. Adhering to this timeline is crucial for maintaining the right to seek redress for discrimination through EEO procedures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement provided in the question is true. An individual who intends to file an EEO (Equal Employment Opportunity) complaint must contact their EEO office within 45 calendar days of the occurrence of the alleged discriminatory act, or within 45 calendar days of the effective date of a personnel action. This timeline is critical for the complaint process under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which addresses employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 further expanded this by stating that discriminatory acts in compensation are not limited to initial discriminatory decisions but can include each instance of disparity in pay.
It is essential for individuals who believe they have experienced workplace discrimination to be aware of these timelines to ensure their rights are maintained. Failure to adhere to the 45-day rule may result in the forfeiture of the right to seek redress through EEO procedures. This aligns with the broader goal of the EEOC to investigate employment discrimination and protect employees who file complaints.