(1) When constituent relations staff and local CA staff have made a reasonable attempt to resolve the complaint, the regional administrator, the office chief, or the constituent relations supervisor may convene a panel to review the complaint and make recommendations to the CA assistant secretary for resolution.

(2) The regional administrator or office chief and the constituent relations supervisor will determine the membership of the panel.

(3) The panel must consist of the following members:

(a) The regional administrator's or office chief's designee who must not be from the administrative unit where the complaint originated;

(b) A constituent relations staff person;

(c) A person who is not a CA employee; and

(d) If the complainant is a foster parent, a foster parent who is not involved in the complaint.

(4) The panel may examine the complaint, the complainant's file, and any additional relevant information, including information from the complainant, CA staff, or others.

(5) The panel must submit written findings and recommendations to the CA assistant secretary who will issue a final, written decision.