(1) The assistant director must determine if a violation of RCW 49.17.160 has occurred, or whether there was insufficient evidence to determine if a violation occurred.

(2) The assistant director will notify a complainant and their employer of the determination made under subsection (1) of this section within 90 days of receipt of the complaint. The department may extend the 90-day period by providing advance written notice to the complainant and the employer setting forth good cause for an extension of the period, and specifying the duration of the extension.

(a) Violation occurred. If the assistant director determines that RCW 49.17.160 has been violated, the assistant director will issue a citation and notice of assessment describing the violation to the employer, ordering all appropriate relief as described in WAC 296-360-045, and may assess a civil penalty as described in WAC 296-360-175. Complainants and employers have the right to appeal the citation and notice of assessment in accordance with WAC 296-360-180.

(b) Insufficient evidence. If the assistant director finds there is insufficient evidence to determine that a violation occurred, the assistant director will issue a letter of closure and the employee may institute the action on their own behalf within 30 days of such determination as allowed in RCW 49.17.160.

(i) The complainant may file a written request for review by the director within 15 working days of receipt of the determination. The request for director review must set forth the basis for the request. The request must be filed by mail to the address in WAC 296-360-030 (3)(c) or in-person to the address in WAC 296-360-030 (3)(b).

(ii) Upon review the director may set aside the assistant director's determination and issue a citation and notice of assessment, remand the matter for further investigation, or affirm the determination of the assistant director.

(3) Every effort will be made to notify complainants of the determination using a method of mailing that can be tracked or delivery that can be confirmed.