Opinion ID: 454754
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Timely Hearing

Text: 18 Leventhal contends that the City failed to provide a timely hearing and resolution of his retaliatory discharge claim, as required by CETA regulations. The ALJ agreed with this contention, but held that Leventhal was not entitled to any relief because he eventually received a full and fair hearing, and did not suffer any prejudice to his substantive rights. 19 Substantial evidence supports the ALJ's conclusion that the City violated Leventhal's right to a timely hearing. Because the City was a recipient of CETA funds, it was required to hold a hearing on Leventhal's complaint within thirty days of its filing, and to resolve it within sixty days. 20 C.F.R. Sec. 676.83(a) and (c). The City, however, waited over four months to hold its first hearing, and took over seven months to reach a decision. 20 Substantial evidence also supports the ALJ's conclusion that Leventhal has shown no prejudice due to the City's failure to hold a timely hearing. Although the first hearing was inadequate, the second hearing before Officer Black provided Leventhal with a full opportunity to present his claims. Leventhal alleges that the delay in this hearing impaired his ability to present his case, but points to no specific evidence in the record that would support a finding that an earlier hearing would have altered the outcome of his case. The denial of Leventhal's procedural right to a timely hearing and decision did not prejudice his right to present his claim of retaliatory discharge. 3