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CDFW's Non-Discrimination Policy

Notice of Non-Discrimination

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any program, activity or service that it provides on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, or any other characteristic protected by law in the administration of its programs and activities. Relevant laws include:

  • Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
  • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
  • The Age Discrimination Act of 1975
  • Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
  • Section 13 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972
  • Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA)

CDFW will not tolerate intimidation, threats, coercion, or retaliation against individuals exercising their rights under these laws.

Accessibility and Accommodations

CDFW ensures accessibility for individuals with disabilities and limited English proficiency (LEP). This includes:

  • Providing auxiliary aids and services, such as qualified sign language interpreters, Braille documents, and alternative communication formats.
  • Offering language assistance, translation, and interpretive services.
  • Modifying policies and procedures when necessary to ensure equal access unless doing so would impose undue financial or administrative burdens.

If you require assistance or accommodation, please contact the Nondiscrimination Coordinator using the contact information below.

Grievance Procedures

CDFW provides a grievance process to address complaints related to discrimination in its programs, activities, or services in a prompt and equitable manner. The grievance procedure is available to all participants, and members of the public.

Any person who believes they have been aggrieved by an unlawful discriminatory practice regarding CDFW programs, activities or services has a right to file a formal complaint. Any such complaint must be submitted in writing to CDFW Civil Rights Office 180 days of the alleged occurrence.

To submit your complaint or for more information regarding civil rights complaints, please direct inquiries to:

CDFW Civil Rights Office (CRO)
Attn: Monica Claypoole
ADA Coordinator / Nondiscrimination Coordinator
715 P Street, 17th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 902-5577
TTY: Dial 711 for California Relay Service
Email: Monica.Claypoole@wildlife.ca.gov or CivilRights@wildlife.ca.gov

To file a complaint, please provide a written complaint with the following information:

  • Your name, address, and contact information;
  • A description of the alleged discriminatory action, including the program, activity, or service involved;
  • The date and location of the incident; and
  • The remedy you seek.

Note: CDFW may be willing to consider a waiver of the 180-day filing requirement under reasonable circumstances and/or if the complainant shows good cause.

Alternative Formats

Individuals with disabilities or LEP may submit complaints by personal interviews, audio recordings, or other accessible methods. Contact the Nondiscrimination Coordinator to arrange accommodation.
Complaints may be submitted by mail, email, or phone to:

CDFW Civil Rights Office (CRO)
Attn: Monica Claypoole
ADA Coordinator / Nondiscrimination Coordinator
715 P Street, 17th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 902-5577
TTY: Dial 711 for California Relay Service
Email: Monica.Claypoole@wildlife.ca.gov or CivilRights@wildlife.ca.gov

Investigation Process

  • Communication: The complainant will receive an acknowledgment of the complaint within 10 working days.
  • Timeline: The investigation will be conducted within 180 calendar days from the receipt of the complaint.
  • Procedures: This process may include reviewing evidence, interviewing involved parties, and conducting site inspections to gather pertinent information.
  • Confidentiality: Complaints will be handled impartially and confidentially, in accordance with department policy as well as State and federal laws.
  • Resolution: Upon completion, CDFW will provide a written response detailing the findings and any actions taken.
  • Mediation: If deemed appropriate, mediation may be offered to resolve the issue promptly and fairly.

Other Remedies

A complainant is not required to use CDFW’s grievance process before pursuing other remedies. You may file complaints with other agencies, including:

Recordkeeping

All grievance records will be retained by CDFW for a minimum of three years in compliance with applicable policies.

Annual Review

The CRO will conduct an annual review of the non-discrimination policy to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with current standards.