Opinion
Civ. A. No. 04-887(JMF).
March 12, 2008
Kirk D. Williams, Law Offices of Kirk D. Williams, Washington, DC, for Plaintiffs.
Ellen A. Efros, Office of the Attorney General, Martha J. Mullen, Office of Corporation Counsel, Richard S. Love, Office of Corporation Counsel, Office of the Solicitor General, Washington, DC, for Defendants.
MEMORANDUM OPINION
This case is before me for all purposes including trial. Currently pending before me is the District of Columbia Defendant's Motion to Dismiss or in the Alternative, for Summary Judgment ("Defs.Mot."). For the reasons stated below, the motion will be granted in part and denied in part.
INTRODUCTION
Plaintiffs are eleven current or former District of Columbia employees and the estates of two former District of Columbia employees who have made claims for disability compensation pursuant to the District. of Columbia Comprehensive Merit Personnel System Act ("CMPA"). Defendants are 1) the District of Columbia, 2) Mayor Adrian Fenty, and 3) James Jacobs, Director of the Office of Risk Management. Both Fenty and Jacobs are sued in their official capacities.
On May 21, 2007, the estates of two individual plaintiffs were substituted as plaintiffs.
Fenty became Mayor in January of 2007, and therefore replaced former Mayor Anthony Williams as a named defendant. See http://dc.gov/mayor/bios/fenty.shtm (last visited March 4, 2008).
Defendant Computer Literacy World/Creative Disability Management was terminated on October 29, 2005. See Stipulation of Dismissal Without Prejudice [# 20].
DISCUSSION
I. Defendants' Motion to Dismiss
Defendants move to dismiss pursuant to Rule 12(b)(6) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure for failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted. Under Rule 12(b)(6), complaints are liberally construed and all factual allegations in the complaint as well as any inferences that may be drawn from them are accepted as true. Lightfoot v. District of Columbia, No. 01-CV-1484, 2007 WL 148777, at *5 (D.D.C. Jan. 16, 2007).
A. Plaintiffs' § 1983 Claim
In order to ascertain whether plaintiffs have stated a claim for municipal liability pursuant to § 1983, the Court must first determine "whether the complaint states a claim for a predicate constitutional violation." Baker v. District of Columbia, 326 F.3d 1302, 1306 (D.C. Cir. 2003) (citations omitted). The Court must next determine "whether the complaint states a claim that a custom or policy of the municipality caused the violation." Id.Accord Brown v. District of Columbia, No. 05-CV-5320, 514 F.3d 1279, 1283 (D.C. Cir. 2008); Bowman v. District of Columbia, 477 F.Supp.2d 217, 220 (D.D.C. 2007). "[A] local government may not be sued under § 1983 for an injury inflicted solely by its employees or agents. Instead, it is when execution of a government's policy or custom, whether made by its lawmakers or by those whose edicts or acts may fairly be said to represent official policy, inflicts the injury that the government as an entity is responsible under § 1983." Monell v. Dep't of Soc. Servs. of City of New York, 436 U.S. 658, 694, 98 S.Ct. 2018, 56 L.Ed.2d 611 (1978). Liability pursuant to § 1983, therefore, is not based on a theory of respondeat superior. Id. at 691, 98 S.Ct. 2018.
In Count 1 of the Amended Complaint, plaintiffs state the following: "Defendants did intentionally, knowingly, willfully and with complete disregard of Plaintiffs' rights deny Plaintiffs due process of the law by arbitrarily and capriciously administering the [CMPA]." Amended Complaint ¶ 86. Thus, plaintiffs claim that defendants violated their Fifth Amendment due process rights in the administration of the CMPA.
Plaintiffs identify the CMPA as the source of their property interest. Amended Complaint ¶ 29.
Plaintiffs reference the Fifth Amendment in ¶ 1(c) of the Amended Complaint.
"Procedural due process imposes constraints on governmental decisions which deprive individuals of `liberty' or `property' interests within the meaning of the Due Process Clause of the Fifth or Fourteenth Amendment." Mathews v. Eldridge, 424 U.S. 319, 323, 96 S.Ct. 893, 47 L.Ed.2d 18 (1976). In order to have a property interest in a benefit such as disability compensation, plaintiffs must have a "legitimate claim of entitlement to it." Bd. of Regents of State Colls. v. Roth, 408 U.S. 564, 577, 92 S.Ct. 2701, 33 L.Ed.2d 548 (1972). It is undisputed in this Circuit that the CMPA creates such an interest; plaintiffs' Amended Complaint therefore sufficiently states a claim for a predicate constitutional violation under the Fifth Amendment. See Fonville v. District of Columbia, 448 F.Supp.2d 21, 26 (D.D.C. 2006). Accord McManus v. District of Columbia, No. 07-CV-252, 530 F.Supp.2d 46, 71-72 (D.D.C. 2007).
Plaintiffs also state the following in their Amended Complaint: "At all times relevant hereto, Defendants have acted under the color of state law and have maintained through habit, custom, prior practices, rules, and/or regulations, a policy or practice of denying Plaintiffs due process of the law by the arbitrary and capricious administration of the [CMPA]." Amended Complaint ¶ 85. Plaintiffs later describe the policy at issue as "Defendants' unconstitutional practice of arbitrary and capricious and unreasonable and unlawful delays in [CMPA] administration." Amended Complaint ¶ 11. Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint therefore also sufficiently states a claim that a custom or policy of the municipality caused the violation. As a result, plaintiffs' § 1983 claim survives defendants' motion to dismiss. See Erickson v. Pardus, ___ U.S. ___, ___, 127 S.Ct. 2197, 2200, 167 L.Ed.2d 1081 (2007).
The Court notes, however, that although plaintiffs originally claimed that either the CMPA was facially unconstitutional or that it was unconstitutional as applied, only plaintiffs' "as applied" claim survives the court of appeals' holding in Lightfoot v. District of Columbia, 448 F.3d 392 (D.C. Cir. 2006). In Lightfoot, the court held that no due process claim could be brought upon the theory that an agency must proceed through rulemaking when purporting to establish standards "that may be may be used to restrict an administrative agency's decision to terminate or modify a protected liberty or property interest" as opposed to resolving the issues on a case-by-case basis. Id. at 398. Because the court of appeals held that the CMPA was not unconstitutional on its face simply because it did not contain express written time limits for each step in the process of administering disability benefits, plaintiffs can now only argue that the delays they experienced in having their claims processed by defendants were in themselves so extreme as to constitute a violation of their due process rights. In other words, plaintiffs' claim is limited to an argument that the District has an unwritten policy or custom that violates their rights under the Fifth Amendment.
B. Plaintiffs' § 1985 Claim
Section 1985 creates a civil cause of action for conspiracy to interfere with an individual's civil rights. See 42 U.S.C. § 1985. The extent of plaintiffs' conspiracy claim under § 1985 is that "[d]efendants have acted under color of state law and have maintained through habit, custom, prior practices, rules, and/or regulations, a policy and practice of denying Plaintiffs due process of the law by the arbitrary and capricious administration of the Act" and that "[d]efendant, Jacobs, did conspire with unknown members of the TPA to deprive Plaintiffs of due process of the law." Amended Complaint ¶¶ 90, 91. A conspiracy is a "combination of two or more persons acting in concert to commit an unlawful act, or to commit a lawful act by unlawful means, the principal element of which is an agreement between the parties to inflict wrong against or injury upon another, and an overt act that results in damage." Brady v. Livingood, 360 F.Supp.2d 94, 104 (D.D.C. 2004) (citations omitted). In order to survive a motion to dismiss, plaintiffs must "set forth more than just conclusory allegations of an agreement." Graves v. United States, 961 F.Supp. 314, 321 (D.D.C. 1997). Plaintiffs must allege "facts showing the existence or establishment of an agreement." Id. Because plaintiffs fail to allege any such facts, they therefore fail to state a claim for conspiracy. See also McManus, at 74 (holding inter alia that plaintiffs' general allegation that defendants engaged in a conspiracy to deprive plaintiffs of access to administrative remedies relating to their claims for disability compensation was insufficient to state a claim under § 1985).
II. Defendants' Motion for Summary Judgment
Defendants also move for summary judgment pursuant to Rule 56 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, which provides that "[t]he judgment sought should be rendered if the pleadings, the discovery and disclosure materials on file, and any affidavits show that there is no genuine issue of material fact and that the movant is entitled to judgment as a matter of law." Fed.R.Civ.P. 56(c). See also Celotex Corp. v. Catrett, 477 U.S. 317, 322-23, 106 S.Ct. 2548, 91 L.Ed.2d 265 (1986).
A. Statement of Undisputed Material Facts
Tara Rogers
1. Rogers was injured on January 1, 1998. Defs. Mot., Exhibit ("DEX") 2 at 1; Plaintiff's Opposition to District of Columbia Defendants' Motion to Dismiss or, in the Alternative, for Summary Judgment, Exhibit ("PEX") 201 at 1.
2. Rogers was injured on April 27, 1998. PEX 198 at 4.
3. Rogers was injured on February 4, 2002. PEX 203.
4. On April 28, 1998, Rogers filed a Form 1 Claimants Form with the D.C. Disability Compensation Program ("DCP") regarding her January 1, 1998 injury. PEX 198 at 1.
5. On May 5, 1998, Rogers' supervisor signed a Form 2 Supervisor's Form indicating that she did not certify that Rogers was in the performance of her duty at the time of her April 27, 1998, injury. PEX 198 at 4.
6. On December 31, 1998, Rogers received a Notice of Determination by Examiner from DCP indicating that her disability compensation claim for benefits relating to her January 1, 1998, injury had been denied/terminated on the basis that she had a non-occupational disease. PEX 199. Rogers was also told that she could submit a written request for review within thirty days of the date of the decision. PEX 199.
7. On August 27, 1999, Rogers received a Final Order of Denial from DCP regarding her January 1, 1998, injury. PEX 200 at 1. Her claim was denied on the basis that she had a non-occupational disease. PEX 200 at 1. Rogers was also told that she could submit a written request for a hearing within thirty days of the date of the decision. PEX 200 at 2.
8. On October 6, 1999, Rogers requested a formal hearing from DCP regarding her January 1, 1998, injury. PEX 201 at 1.
9. On September 18, 2000, Rogers received a Final Compensation Order from DCP adopting the Hearing Officer's Recommended Compensation Decision, which recommended that Rogers' claim for disability compensation and medical benefits relating to her January 1, 1998, injury be granted. PEX 202 at 1, 6. The parties were informed that any appeals had to be filed in writing within thirty days of the date of the decision. PEX 202 at 1.
10. On January 27, 2002, Rogers wrote a letter to Mayor Williams regarding her inability to obtain health insurance through DCP. PEX 209 at 1.
11. On May 22, 2002, Rogers received a Form 5 Notice of Controversies stating that her claim for disability benefits as to her February 4, 2002, injury had been denied. PEX 203. Rogers was also informed that she could apply in writing for reconsideration within thirty days of the date of the decision. PEX 203.
12. On June 24, 2002, Rogers formally requested reconsideration of the Notice of Controversion dated May 22, 2002 relating to her February 4, 2002, injury. PEX 204 at 1.
13. On July 5, 2002, the D.C. Office of Risk Management ("ORM") acknowledged receipt of Rogers' request for reconsideration of her disability compensation benefits relating to her February 4, 2002, injury. PEX 205.
14. On August 6, 2002, Rogers received notice from DCP that an appointment for an IME relating to her February 4, 2002, injury had been scheduled for August 28, 2003. PEX 206.
15. On September 6, 2002, Rogers received a letter from CLW/CKM, Inc. indicating that she had been selected to participate in the Skills Equal Employment Knowledge program. PEX 207 at 1.
16. On November 7, 2002, Rogers received a letter from Concentra Medical Examinations indicating that an appointment for an IME relating to her January 1, 1998 injury had been scheduled for December 23, 2002. PEX 208.
17. On April 17, 2003, Rogers received a DCP-5 Notice of Intent to Terminate Disability Compensation Payments from DCP stating that her payments relating to her January 1, 1998, injury would be terminated on May 18, 2003. PEX 210 at 1. Rogers was also told that she could either request reconsideration by submitting a written request within 10 days of the date of the notice or appeal to the D.C. Department of Employment Services' Office of Hearings and Adjudication ("OHA"). PEX 210 at 1-2.
18. On June 13, 2003, Rogers sent DCP a letter indicating her willingness to undergo vocational rehabilitation services with regard to her February 4, 2002, injury. PEX 211.
19. On June 13, 2003, Rogers formally requested reconsideration of the Notice of Controversion dated April 17, 2003, relating to her February 4, 2002, injury. PEX 212 at 1.
20. On June 18, 2003, ORM acknowledged receipt of Rogers' request for reconsideration of her disability compensation benefits relating to her February 4, 2002, injury. PEX 213.
21. On July 31, 2003, Rogers submitted an Application for Formal Hearing to OHA relating to her February 4, 2002, injury. PEX 214 at 1-2.
22. On August 20, 2003, Rogers requested a Pre-Hearing Conference from OHA relating to both her January 1, 1998, injury and her February 4, 2002, injury. PEX 215.
23. On September 7, 2003, OHA issued an Order Granting Motion for Pre-Hearing Conference relating to claims number 552. PEX 216.
24. On September 15, 2003, Rogers sent DCP a copy of her report of disability rating, seeking an award for permanent partial disability.
25. On September 29, 2003, Rogers sent the Office of Corporation Counsel a letter outlining her analysis of the issues presented in relation to her efforts to obtain disability compensation for her injury of January 1, 1998. PEX 218.
26. On October 1, 2003, Rogers withdrew her application to OHA for a formal hearing relating to her January 1, 1998, injury on the basis that all contested issues had been resolved in that DCP had agreed to reinstate Rogers' benefits including all past due and accrued benefits from May 18, 2003, to the present and continuing. PEX 219.
27. On October 2, 2003, Rogers received a letter from Elite Medical Legal Services confirming that an IME had be scheduled for her on October 16, 2003, regarding her January 1, 1998, injury. PEX 220 at 1.
28. On October 23, 2003, OHA issued an Order Dismissing Application for Formal Hearing based on the representations in Rogers' October 1, 2003, letter. PEX 221.
29. On October 29, 2003, Rogers sent DCP a copy of the October 2, 2003, written agreement between the parties relating to her February 4, 2002, injury. PEX 222 at 1.
30. On January 5, 2004, DCP issued a Form 5 Compensation Determination by Examiner reducing Rogers' benefits as to her January 1, 1998, injury. PEX 223.
31. On April 2, 2004, Rogers received a Form 5 Compensation Determination by Examiner from DCP stating that her disability compensation claim for her January 1, 1998, injury had been approved. DEX 2 at 1-2; PEX 224 at 1-2. Rogers was also told that she could apply in writing for reconsideration of the decision within 30 dates from the date of the decision. DEX 2 at 1; PEX 224 at 1-2.
32. On April 9, 2004, Rogers formally requested reconsideration by DCP of the April 2, 2004, compensation determination. PEX 225 at 1.
33. On April 12, 2004, Rogers formally requested reconsideration of DCP's April 2, 2004, determination. PEX 226.
34. On July 23, 2004, Rogers received a letter from the D.C. Office of Personnel ("OP") regarding her January 1, 1998, injury, in which she was asked whether she planned and was able to return to her position. PEX 228.
35. On June 9, 2006, Rogers received a Form NOC Notice of Determination Regarding Permanent Partial Disability Benefits relating to her January 1, 1998, injury that indicated that an overpayment of benefits had occurred. PEX 229 at 1-2. Rogers was also told that she could either 1) request reconsideration by submitting the Request for Reconsideration Form and supporting documentation within thirty days of the date of the notice, or 2) appeal the notice to OHA. PEX 229 at 1.
36. On June 16, 2006, Rogers received a Form DCORM-1 Final Decision on Reconsideration from DCP as to her injury of January 1, 1998, indicating that that April 2, 2004, determination as to Rogers' disability was being upheld but that clarification regarding her desire to receive permanent partial disability benefits was required. PEX 230 at 1-2. Rogers was also told that she could file for a hearing with OHA by July 15, 2006, thirty days from the date of the decision. PEX 230 at 1-2.
Patricia Hayden
1. Hayden was injured on February 2, 1996. PEX 78 at 1 n. 1.
2. Hayden was injured on February 9, 1996. PEX 54 at 1.
3. Hayden was injured on February 14, 1996. PEX 53.
4. Hayden was injured on November 30, 1998. PEX 70.
5. Hayden was injured on December 15, 1999. PEX 78 at 1.
6. On December 10, 2000, Hayden filed a claim for recurrence of her disability relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 56.
7. On March 28, 2001, Hayden sent a letter to DCP requesting information about the status of her October 2000 claim for recurrence of her disability relating to her February 14, 1996, injury. PEX 53.
8. On May 9, 2001, Hayden received a Notice of Determination by Examiner from DCP stating that her disability compensation claim for her February 9, 1996, injury was being terminated. PEX 54 at 1. Hayden was informed that she could submit a written request for review of the decision with thirty days from the date of the decision. PEX 54 at 1.
9. On October 17, 2001, Hayden sent a letter to DCP requesting information about the status of her claim for recurrence of her disability relating to her February 9, 1996, injury, which was filed on December 10, 2000. PEX 56 at 1.
10. On July 18, 2001, Hayden formally requested reconsideration of the Notice of Determination relating to her February 14, 1996, injury. PEX 55.
11. On January 23, 2002, Hayden sent a letter to DCP forwarding a copy of her July 18, 2001, request for reconsideration relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 57 at 1.
12. On January 25, 2002, Hayden received a Final Order from DCP stating that her request for reconsideration relating to her February 9, 1996, injury had been denied as untimely because it was not filed within thirty days of the decision. PEX 58.
13. On January 30, 2002, Hayden filed an application for a formal hearing and final order of denial relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 59.
14. On May 31, 2002, DCP issued a Final Compensation Order denying Hayden's claim for benefits relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 60 at 4.
15. On December 10, 2002, the D.C. Department of Employment Services' ("DOES") Office of the Director issued a Decision and Remand Order of the Director reversing the May 31, 2002, Final Compensation Order denying Hayden's claim for benefits relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 60 at 4. Both parties were informed that they could file an application for review with the D.C. Court of Appeals within 30 days of the date of the decision. PEX 60 at 5.
16. On January 23, 2003, Hayden sent a letter to DCP requesting a breakdown of their calculations regarding her disability award relating to her November 30, 1998, injury. PEX 70.
17. On August 6, 2003, the D.C. Court of Appeals issued an Order granting the District's consent motion to dismiss its petition for review of the December 10, 2002, decision relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 61.
18. On August 11, 2003, Hayden forwarded DCP a copy of the D.C. Court of Appeal's August 6, 2003, decision and requested payment of temporary total disability compensation wage replacement benefits relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 62 at 1.
19. On September 15, 2003, Hayden sent DCP various completed forms in support of her request for wage replacement benefits relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 63.
20. On October 23, 2003, Hayden sent DCP copies of her 2000 and 2002 income tax forms in support of her request for temporary total disability compensation relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 64.
21. On November 7, 2003, Hayden sent DCP copies of social security documents in support of her claim for disability benefits relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 65.
22. On January 7, 2004, Hayden sent DCP a copy of her IRS statements of income for 2000, 2001, and 2002, in support of her claim for benefits relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 67, PEX 68.
23. On January 21, 2004, Hayden sent DCP a letter requesting a breakdown of their calculations regarding her disability award for her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 69.
24. On February 2, 2004, Hayden sent DCP a letter challenging the amount that she had been awarded in temporary total disability compensation benefits relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 72.
25. On February 3, 2004, Hayden received a letter from DCP explaining the calculations that were done to arrive at the total sum of her award relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 73.
26. On February 9, 2004, Hayden sent DCP a letter requesting additional information about their calculations regarding the disability award for her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 74.
27. On February 20, 2004, Hayden formally requested reconsideration of the calculations contained in DCP's letter of February 3, 2004, which contained a detailed breakdown of the disability award for her February 9, 1996, injury. DEX 3 at 2; PEX 75.
28. On February 24, 2004, DCP acknowledged receipt of Hayden's request for reconsideration of her disability compensation benefits relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 76.
29. On March 24, 2004, Hayden filed Petitioner's Suggestions in Support of Petition in Mandamus with the D.C. Court of Appeals relating to her February 9, 1996, injury. PEX 78 at 1-14.
30. On April 16, 2004, the D.C. Court of Appeals issued an Order denying without prejudice Hayden's petition for writ of mandamus relating to her February 9, 1996. PEX 79.
31. Hayden was injured on November 30, 2005. DEX 3 at 1; PEX 80.
32. On April 24, 2007, Hayden received a Form DCORM-1 Final Decision on Reconsideration from DCP indicating that her disability compensation claim for her November 30, 2005, injury had been reconsidered and that she was being awarded additional monies. PEX 80 at 2; DEX 3 at 2. Hayden was also told that she had thirty days, or until May 23, 2007, to request a hearing with OHA. PEX 80 at 1-3; DEX 3 at 1-3.
George Morgan
1. Morgan was injured on May 10, 1983. DEX 18; PEX 153.
2. On December 18, 1998, Morgan received a letter from CorVel scheduling an IME for January 5, 1999. PEX 154 at 3.
3. On October 17, 2000, Morgan received a Notice of Determination by Examiner from DCP adjusting his benefits to reflect that he had been found to be capable of returning to light duty work. DEX 18; PEX 153. Morgan was informed that he could submit a written request for a review within 30 days of the date of the adjustment. DEX 18; PEX 153.
4. On November 14, 2000, Morgan sent two letters indicating his dissatisfaction with his compensation adjustment. PEX 154 at 1, 2.
5. On December 12, 2000, Morgan sent a letter to DCP requesting reconsideration of his workers' compensation decision. PEX 155 at 1
6. On January 3, 2001, Morgan formally requested adjustment of his lost wage-earning capacity based upon a change of circumstances. PEX 156.
7. On June 21, 2001, Morgan sent DCP a letter inquiring about the status of his claim filed January 3, 2001. PEX 157.
8. On September 3, 2003, Morgan received a letter from DCP requesting that he complete a claim for continuing benefits form, a request for copy of transcript of tax form, and an election of benefits form. PEX 158.
9. On March 19, 2004, Morgan filed a formal claim for workers' compensation benefits based upon a change of circumstances. PEX 159.
10. On April 30, 2007, Morgan received a letter from ORM asking that within ten days he confirm that no deductions were being withheld from his bi-weekly compensation check for health insurance and/or life insurance. PEX 160.
11. On August 3, 2007, Morgan received a Final Decision on Reconsideration from DCP upholding the original decision to reduce his benefits. PEX 161 at 1-3. Morgan was also told that he had thirty days, or until September 1, 2007, to file for a hearing with OHA. PEX 161 at 1, 3.
Denise Downing
1. Downing was injured on October 12, 1992. PEX 164 at 1.
2. On August 31, 2000, Downing received a Final Compensation Order from DOES, which adopted the Hearing Officer's Recommended Compensation Decision to: 1) grant Downing's request for past due compensation benefits based upon an erroneous application for her weekly wage, 2) grant Downing's request for reinstatement of temporary total disability benefits effective May 17, 1997, and 3) grant Downing's request for payment of medical expenses relating to her low back strain but not her carpal tunnel syndrome. PEX 162 at 1, 10. Both parties were told that they had thirty days from the date of the decision to file a Petition for Review. PEX 162 at 1.
3. On December 11, 2000, Downing sent a letter to DCP requesting an accounting and/or reconciliation of benefits for the previously issued Compensation Order. PEX 164 at 1.
4. On January 4, 2001, Downing sent another letter to DCP requesting a reconciliation of her compensation case. PEX 166 at 1.
5. On March 28, 2001, Downing sent a letter to DCP requesting the CA-25 representing DCP's payment of benefits to her. PEX 167 at 1.
6. On June 12, 2001, Downing formally requested benefits from DCP. PEX 169.
7. On December 12, 2002, Downing requested a formal hearing from OHA. PEX 170 at 1.
8. On December 20, 2002, Downing received an Order Granting Pre-Hearing Conference from OAH that set a pre-hearing conference for January 24, 2003. PEX 21 at 1; DEX 7 at 2.
Juanita Irving
1. Irving was injured on May 31, 2001. DEX 8 at 1; PEX 137
2. On June 21, 2001, Irving received a Notice of Acceptance from DCP acknowledging the filing of her disability compensation claim. PEX 137.
3. On August 28, 2001, Irving received a Notice of Determination by Examiner from DCP notifying her that her disability compensation claim for benefits had been suspended. PEX 138. Irving was also informed that she could submit a written request for review of the decision within thirty days of the decision. PEX 138.
4. On September 25, 2001, Irving submitted a written request for review of the DCP decision dated August 28, 2001. PEX 139.
5. On September 11, 2002, Irving sent DCP a letter seeking a response to her request for reconsideration and also requesting wage replacement benefits. PEX 140.
6. On September 16, 2002, Irving received a written acknowledgment from ORM regarding her request for reconsideration. PEX 141.
7. On December 12, 2002, Irving sent OHA a letter seeking a response to her request for a hearing. PEX 142.
8. On December 20, 2002, Irving received an Order Granting Pre-Hearing Conference from OAH that set a pre-hearing conference for January 24, 2003. PEX 21 at 1; DEX 7 at 2.
9. On August 8, 2003, Irving filed an application with OHA for a formal hearing. PEX 143 at 2-3.
10. On August 26, 2003, Irving received a letter from OHA stating that OHA lacked jurisdiction over her claim because a Final Order (Denial of Award Order) had not yet been issued by the Disability Compensation Manager. PEX 144.
11. On September 3, 2003, Irving filed Claimant's Application for Review with the Labor Standards Office ("LSO"), Office of the Director. PEX 145 at 2.
12. On November 25, 2003, DOES' Office of the General Counsel acknowledged Irving's September 10, 2003, filing in its Notice of Application for Review Filed. PEX 146.
13. On December 1, 2003, Irving received a Reconsideration Final Order from DCP stating that the decision to suspend her compensation payments had been reversed and referred back to the claims adjuster. DEX 15; PEX 147.
14. On December 8, 2003, Irving withdrew her Application for Review from DOES citing a resolution of contested issues. PEX 148; PEX 8.
15. On February 24, 2004, Irving sent DCP a letter requesting payment of her compensation benefits and an explanation of the calculations. PEX 149.
16. On March 1, 2004, Irving sent DCP a letter requesting past due and accrued wage replacement benefits. PEX 150.
17. On March 24, 2004, Irving filed Petitioner's Suggestions in Support of Petition in Mandamus with the D.C. Court of Appeals. PEX 151 at 1-14.
18. On April 16, 2004, the D.C. Court of Appeals issued an Order denying Irving's petition without prejudice to renew. PEX 152.
James Winstead
1. Winstead was injured on July 12, 1990, September 14, 1991, September 19, 1992, and January 21, 1994. PEX 87.
2. On December 7, 1999, Winstead sent DCP a letter requesting authorization for surgery relating to his January 21, 1994, injury. PEX 81.
3. On May 15, 2000, Winstead received a letter from CorVel indicating his request for pre-certification for surgery relating to his January 21, 1994, injury could not be accommodated because a surgery date had not been provided. PEX 82.
4. On October 17, 2000, Winstead received a Pre-Certification authorization from CorVel for an MRI relating to his January 21, 1994, injury. PEX 83.
5. On November 16, 2001, Winstead requested a full and final lump-sum settlement of his disability compensation award for permanent impairment relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates. PEX 84.
6. On December 5, 2001, Winstead sent DCP a formal request for benefits and indicated his interest in a full and final settlement relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates. PEX 85 at 1. Winstead also attached supporting medical documentation. PEX 85 at 2-3.
7. On January 9, 2002, DCP sent Winstead's physicians letters requesting all of his medical reports and records so that they could evaluate his claims relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates. PEX 86.
8. On March 1, 2002, Winstead sent a letter to DCP with an executed medical authorization and release of confidential information form relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates. PEX 87.
9. On March 27, 2002, Winstead received a letter from DCP indicating that they had not yet received the medical records relating to all four injuries that they had requested of Winstead's physicians. PEX 88 at 1.
10. On October 2, 2002, Winstead received a letter from DCP confirming that an IME had been scheduled for October 28, 2002, relating to the injury that occurred on January 21, 1994. PEX 89.
11. On November 13, 2002, Winstead sent DCP a letter following his attendance at the scheduled IME and requested a copy of the IME report and a determination regarding his claim for benefits relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates. PEX 90 at 1.
12. On December 2, 2002, Winstead requested a Notice of Determination relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates. PEX 91 at 1.
13. On December 11, 2002, Winstead received a letter from DCP indicating that prior to issuing a Notice of Determination, it needed a copy of the DCP 5 Acceptance letter for the injuries that occurred on all four dates. PEX 92.
14. On December 12, 2002, Winstead submitted an application requesting a formal hearing from OHA as to the injuries that occurred on all four dates. PEX 93.
15. On December 20, 2002, Winstead received an Order Granting Pre-Hearing Conference from OAH that set a pre-hearing conference for January 24, 2003. PEX 21 at 1; DEX 7 at 2.
16. On April 16, 2003, Winstead submitted additional information relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates. PEX 94 at 1-10.
17. On May 22, 2003, Winstead submitted additional information relating generally to his claim for compensation for the injuries that occurred on all four dates and specifically to the income he was earning at the time of his January 21, 1994 injury. PEX 95.
18. On July 10, 2003, Winstead received a Form 5 Compensation Determination by Examiner from DCP stating that his disability compensation claim for the injuries occurring on all four days would be awarded at the rate due a 15% permanent partial impairment. PEX 96 at 2. Winstead was also told that he could apply in writing for reconsideration of the decision within 30 dates from the date of the decision. PEX 96 at 2.
19. On July 18, 2003, Winstead sent DCP a letter relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates in acceptance of their offer of 15% permanent impairment of his left upper extremity. PEX 96 at 5.
20. On August 13, 2003, Winstead submitted an application requesting a formal hearing relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates. PEX 97.
21. On August 26, 2003, Winstead received a letter from OHA relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates stating that OHA lacked jurisdiction over Winstead's claim since a Final Order (Denial of Award Order) had not yet been issued by the Disability Compensation Manager. PEX 98 at 4; PEX 144.
22. On September 3, 2003, Winstead submitted Claimant's Application for Review relating to the injuries that occurred on all four days to DOES. PEX 98 at 1-3.
23. On September 3, 2003, Winstead formally requested reconsideration of the Compensation Notice of Determination by Examiner relating to the injuries that occurred on all four days. PEX 99.
24. On September 10, 2003, Winstead filed Claimant's Application for Review relating to the injuries that occurred on all four days with LSO's Office of the Director. PEX 98 at 5-9; PEX 101.
25. On September 12, 2003, DCP acknowledged receipt of Winstead's request for reconsideration relating to the injuries that occurred on all four days. PEX 100.
26. On February 20, 2004, Winstead filed a Petition for Review of a decision of the Director, District of Columbia Department of Employment Services with the D.C. Court of Appeals on the basis that the Director failed to issue a decision within 45 days of Winstead's Application for Review, filed August 26, 2003, relating to the injuries that occurred on all four days. PEX 26.
27. On March 3, 2004, the D.C. Court of Appeals issued an Order directing Winstead to show cause within 20 days why his petition for review of the decision issued on August 26, 2003, relating to the injuries that occurred on all four dates should not be dismissed for lack of jurisdiction since it was taken from a non-final and non-appealable decision. PEX 102.
28. On March 23, 2004, Winstead filed Petitioners' Response to Show Cause Order, relating to the injuries that occurred on all four days, with the D.C. Court of Appeals. PEX 103.
29. On March 30, 2004, the D.C. Court of Appeals issued an Order denying Winstead's petition relating to the injuries that occurred on all four days for lack of jurisdiction. PEX 27.
30. On April 9, 2004, Winstead's counsel sent a letter to D.C. Councilmember Vincent Orange requesting that the D.C. Merit Personnel Act be amended to include express time frames within which the Act's legislatively-mandated administrative functions had to be executed. PEX 28 at 1.
31. On August 2, 2006, Winstead received a Form DCORM-1 Final Decision on Reconsideration from DCP stating that his request for reconsideration relating to the injuries that had occurred on all four days had been denied as untimely because it was not filed within thirty days of the decision. PEX 104 at 1.
Louis Beale
1. Beale was injured on August 13, 2001. PEX 1 at 1.
2. On August 15, 2001, Beale filed his First Report of Injury or Occupational Disease with DCP. PEX 1 at 1.
3. On August 30, 2001, Beale received a Notice of Acceptance from DCP indicating that his disability compensation claim had been accepted. PEX 2.
4. On November 14, 2001, Beale wrote a letter to DCP complaining that, although his claim had been approved, he had yet to receive any compensation. PEX 3.
5. On November 29, 2001, Beale received a Form 5 Compensation Acceptance Order from DCP stating that his disability compensation claim had been accepted. PEX 4.
6. On December 3, 2001, Beale received a Form 5 Compensation Acceptance Order from DCP stating that his disability compensation claim had been accepted. PEX 5.
7. On December 7, 2001, Beale received a letter from Med-Eval confirming that an IME had been scheduled for him for December 20, 2001. PEX 6.
8. On January 29, 2002, Beale received a Form 5 Final Compensation Denial/Termination Order from DCP indicating that his disability compensation claim was being terminated because he had fully recovered from his injury and was able to return to work without any restrictions. PEX 7. Beale was also told that he could apply in writing for reconsideration of the decision within 30 dates from the date of the decision. PEX 7.
9. On February 13, 2002, Beale submitted a written request to DCP for a hearing for reconsideration of the decision to terminate his disability compensation. PEX 8.
10. On February 21, 2002, Beale received a response from DCP to his February 13, 2002, letter, which indicated that further information (in the form of a letter explaining why he thought he was entitled to further benefits and supporting documentation) had to be submitted within thirty days of the final termination order. PEX 9.
11. On March 19, 2002, Beale submitted additional medical documentation to DCP and indicated that he was still under a doctor's care. PEX 10.
12. On March 29, 2002, Beale received a Final Order from DCP indicating that his disability compensation claim was being referred back to the claims adjuster for further consideration. PEX 11 at 1-2.
13. On April 29, 2002, Beale requested a formal hearing from OHA. PEX 12 at 1.
14. On June 3, 2002, Beale moved to have his application for a formal hearing dismissed on the ground that the case had been referred to the claims adjuster for further determination of his medical status. DEX 11 at 1.
15. On June 11, 2002, Beale was again informed by DCP that his case had been referred back to the claims adjuster. PEX 13 at 1. Beale was also asked to submit any necessary medical documentation within ten business days. PEX 13 at 1.
16. On June 20, 2002, Beale received an Order Dismissing Application for Formal Hearing without Prejudice from OHA in response to his June 3, 2002, motion on the basis that the case had been referred back to the claims adjuster for further consideration and therefore OHA lacked jurisdiction. PEX 14; DEX 11 at 1.
17. On July 16, 2002, Beale received a Compensation Denial/Termination Order from DCP indicating that his disability compensation claim was being denied because his medical condition was not causally related to the injury of August 13, 2001. PEX 15. Beale was informed that he could submit a written request for reconsideration within thirty days from the date of the decision. PEX 15.
18. On July 25, 2002, Beale received a letter from the D.C. Department of Mental Health's Community Services Agency ("CSA") indicating that, because his benefits had been terminated on January 29, 2002, he could either return to duty immediately or contact the agency to request extended leave. PEX 16 at 3.
19. On July 31, 2002, Beale responded by letter to CSA's July 25, 2002, letter and indicated his desire for a hearing. PEX 16 at 6.
20. On August 14, 2002, Beale submitted a formal request to DCP for reconsideration of DCP's July 16, 2002, denial of benefits. PEX 17 at 1.
21. On August 28, 2002, Beale received an acknowledgment of his request for reconsideration of his disability compensation payments. PEX 18.
22. On October 24, 2002, Beale's attorney sent a letter to DCP complaining that, although Beale had filed a formal request for reconsideration, no decision had been rendered. PEX 19.
23. On December 12, 2002, Beale's attorney sent a letter to OHA complaining that Beale had been without benefits and a hearing since February 2002. PEX 20.
24. On December 20, 2002, Beale received an Order Granting Pre-Hearing Conference from OAH and setting the pre-hearing conference for January 24, 2003. PEX 21 at 1; DEX 7 at 2.
25. On July 31, 2003, Beale submitted an application to OHA for a formal hearing. PEX 22.
26. On August 26, 2003, Beale received a letter from OHA stating that OHA lacked jurisdiction over Beale's claim because a Final Order (Denial of Award Order) had not yet been issued by the Disability Compensation Manager. PEX 23; PEX 144.
27. On September 3, 2003, Beale filed Claimant's Application for Review with the Department of Employment Services Labor Standards Office of the Director. PEX 24 at 2.
28. On November 25, 2003, Beale received an acknowledgment from LSO's Office of the General Counsel that his Application for Review had been filed. PEX 25.
29. On February 20, 2004, Beale filed a Petition for Review of a Decision of the Director, District of Columbia Department of Employment Services with the D.C. Court of Appeals on the basis that the Director failed to issue a decision within 45 days of Beale's Application for Review. PEX 26.
30. On March 3, 2004, the D.C. Court of Appeals issued an Order directing Beale to show cause within 20 days why his petition for review should not be dismissed for lack of jurisdiction since it was taken from a non-final and non-appealable decision. PEX 102.
31. On March 23, 2004, Beale filed Petitioners' Response to Show Cause Order with the D.C. Court of Appeals. PEX 103.
32. On March 30, 2004, the D.C. Court of Appeals issued an Order denying Beale's petition for lack of jurisdiction. PEX 27.
33. On April 9, 2004, Beale's counsel sent a letter to Councilman Vincent Orange requesting that the D.C. Merit Personnel Act be amended to include express time frames within which the Act's legislatively-mandated administrative functions had to be executed. PEX 28 at 1.
34. On May 24, 2006, Beale received a Form DCORM-1 Final Decision on Reconsideration from DCP indicating that his Request for Reconsideration of Notice of Determination had been denied as untimely because it was not filed within thirty days of the decision. PEX 29 at 4. Beale was informed that, while he could not appeal the decision, he did have thirty days or until June 22, 2006, within which to file for a hearing with OHA. PEX 29 at 5.
35. On June 2, 2006, Beale received a Form DCORM-1 Final Decision on Reconsideration from DCP indicating that his Request for Reconsideration of Notice of Determination had been denied as untimely because it was not filed within thirty days of the decision. PEX 29 at 1. Beale was informed that, while he could not appeal the decision, he did have thirty days, or until July 1, 2006, within which to file for a hearing with OHA. PEX 29 at 2.
Patricia Newby
1. Newby was injured on November 30, 1998. PEX 48.
2. Newby was injured on April 2, 2001. DEX 12 at 1; PEX 43.
3. On April 7, 2001, Newby filed a First Report of Injury or Occupational Disease with DCP relating to her April 2, 2001, injury. PEX 43.
4. On June 24, 2002, Newby received a Form 5 Compensation Determination by Examiner from DCP denying her claim for disability compensation relating to her April 2, 2001, injury. PEX 44 at 1-2. Newby was informed that she could apply in writing for reconsideration within thirty days from the date of the decision. PEX 44 at 1.
5. On June 28, 2002, Newby received an acknowledgment from ORM that her request for reconsideration of the decision relating to her April 2, 2001, injury had been received. PEX 45.
6. On August 2, 2002, Newby received a Final Order from DCP indicating that her request for reconsideration of the decision relating to her April 2, 2001, injury had been reviewed and that her case was being referred back to the claims adjuster. PEX 46 at 1-4; DEX 12 at 1-4. The claims adjuster was authorized to: 1) have Newby evaluated by a pain management specialist and to request a psychological evaluation, and 2) determine the amount of a previous overpayment to Newby and not reinstate wage payments until the overpayment was resolved. PEX 46 at 3-4; DEX 12 at 3-4. The order further indicated that it was reasonable to conclude that the injury that Newby suffered on April 2, 2001, was actually a recurrence of the injury that first occurred on November 30, 1998. PEX 46 at 2.
7. Finally, the order indicated that Newby was capable of working and therefore not entitled to future loss wage payments. PEX 46 at 4; DEX 12 at 4.
8. On August 9, 2002, Newby received a letter from DCP scheduling her for an IME relating to her April 2, 2001, injury for August 16, 2002. PEX 47.
9. On January 23, 2004, Newby formally requested permanent partial disability compensation benefits relating to her November 30, 1998 injury. PEX 48 at 1. Newby submitted a letter from a physician in support of her request. The letter referenced both a November 1998, injury and an April 2002, injury. PEX 48 at 2. The letter also indicates that Newby was injured in 2001. PEX 48 at 2.
10. On January 23, 2004, Newby sent DCP copies of invoices for outstanding medical bills relating to her November 30, 1998, injury. PEX 49.
11. On June 25, 2004, Newby submitted medical documentation in support of her request for past temporary partial disability relating to her November 30, 1998, injury. PEX 50 at 1.
12. On June 25, 2004, Newby received a letter from DCP denying her treating physician's request for physical therapy on the basis that Newby's request for compensation benefits had been previously denied on June 24, 2002. PEX 51.
13. On June 28, 2004, Newby received a letter (through her attorney) from DCP indicating that she was not eligible for any compensation due to wage loss in her present employment. PEX 52.
Sheila Owens
1. Owens was injured on February 17, 2004. PEX 189 at 1.
2. On February 18, 2004, Owens filed a First Report of Injury or Occupational Disease. PEX 189 at 1.
3. On March 9, 2004, Owens received a Form 5 Notice of Controversion/Termination Order from DCP indicating that they were awaiting the receipt of medical reports before making a determination on her claim. PEX 190 at 1. Owens was also told that she could apply in writing for reconsideration within thirty days of the date of the decision. PEX 190 at 1.
4. On April 9, 2004, Owens sent DCP a letter formally requesting reconsideration of the Notice of Controversion/Termination dated March 9, 2004. PEX 192 at 1.
5. On April 23, 2004, Owens received a letter from DCP acknowledging receipt of her request for reconsideration. PEX 193.
6. On May 21, 2004, Owens faxed DCP medical records relating to her accident on February 17, 2004. PEX 194 at 1.
7. On July 19, 2004, Owens received a letter from the D.C. Department of Mental Health ("DMH") stating that the Department of Nursing does not assign light duty to any staff whose primary function is direct patient care because of the risk of injury inherent in the position. PEX 195.
8. On April 19, 2006, Owens received a Form DCORM-1 Final Decision on Reconsideration from DCP. PEX 196. DCP concluded that her claim should have been accepted and therefore remanded the claim to the adjuster. PEX 196 at 2.
9. On May 19, 2006, Owens received a Form NOC Notice of Determination Regarding Original Claim for Compensation from DCP indicating that her claim had been accepted. PEX 197 at 1. Owens was also told that she could request reconsideration of the determination or appeal. PEX 197 at 1.
Mary Waley
1. Waley was injured on August 5, 1994. DEX 17; PEX 30.
2. On May 29, 2002, DCP informed Waley's physician that it would not authorize or guarantee benefits for physical therapy. PEX 30.
3. On July 7, 2003, DCP informed Waley's physician that it would not authorize or guarantee benefits for further office visits or treatment on the basis that her medical problems were due to a preexisting condition and not related to the accident that occurred on August 5, 1994. PEX 31.
4. On December 17, 2003, Waley received a Form 5 Compensation Determination by Examiner from DCP indicating that her disability compensation payments would be reduced. PEX 32 at 1-2. Waley was informed that she could apply in writing to DCP for reconsideration of the decision within thirty days. PEX 32 at 1.
5. On January 7, 2004, Waley formally requested reconsideration of the December 17, 2003, determination. PEX 33. Waley also requested a hearing. PEX 33.
6. On January 15, 2004, DCP sent Waley a written acknowledgment of her request for reconsideration. PEX 34.
7. On March 2, 2004, Waley received a letter from her treating physician indicating that, because her disability compensation claim had been denied, she was now personally responsible for the outstanding balance. PEX 35.
8. On March 18, 2004, Waley received a letter from DCP explaining that her benefits had been reduced as a result of the December 17, 2003, determination. PEX 37.
9. On March 19, 2004, Waley notified DCP that her physician' office was under the impression that her benefits had been terminated and that this should not have occurred since her request for reconsideration was still pending with DCP. PEX 36.
10. On March 26, 2004, Waley sent DCP copies of her medical reports and unpaid medical invoice. PEX 39.
11. On May 21, 2004, Waley received a letter from Concentra indicating that a discogram was not recommended at this point and that they were not longer sure that the symptoms Waley was currently experiencing were related to the injury that occurred on August 5, 1994. PEX 40.
12. On August 19, 2004, Waley received a letter from Concentra indicating that an RS4I interferential stimulator was not recommended at this point and that they were no longer sure that the Waley was currently experiencing were related to the injury that occurred on August 5, 1994. PEX 41.
13. On April 23, 2007, Waley received a Form DCORM-1 Final Decision on Reconsideration from DCP indicating that her Request for Reconsideration of Notice of Determination had been accepted as timely and upholding the original decision to reduce her benefits. PEX 42 at 1, 6; DEX 17 at 1, 6. Waley was also told that, while she could not appeal the decision, she did have thirty days, or until May 22, 2007, within which to file for a hearing with OHA. PEX 42 at 1, 6; DEX 17 at 1, 6.
B. Plaintiffs' § 1983 Claim
1. Filing for Disability Compensation Benefits Under the CMPA
The easiest way to appreciate the gravamen of the claims made by plaintiffs is through a graphic representation of the relevant deadlines set by the CMPA. The Court can then review each plaintiff's facts to determine the status of their claims within the overall process and whether there exist any genuine issues of material fact. 1-623.20 1-623.22 1-623.24 1-623.24 1-623.24 1-623.24 1-623.24 1-623.24 1-623.28 1-623.28 1-623.28
Step Deadline Event Statutory Authority 1. Within 3 days Employee reports injury. D.C. Code § of injury 2. Within 3 years Employee makes claim for disability D.C. Code § of injury compensation. 3. Within 30 days Mayor or his designee makes a finding of D.C. Code § of Step 2 facts. 4. Within 30 days Claimant may request reconsideration of D.C. Code § of Step 3 the decision. 5. Within 30 days Mayor issues written decision. D.C. Code § of Step 4 6. Within 30 days Claimant may request reconsideration or D.C. Code § of Step 5 request a hearing on the claim before a DOES Disability Compensation. Admin- istrative Law Judge ("ALJ"). 7. None Hearing before ALJ. D.C. Code § 8. Within 30 days Mayor notifies claimant in writing of D.C. Code § of Step 7 decision. 9. Within 30 days Claimant may seek review of the decision D.C. Code § of Step 8 (award) by the Director of DOES. 10. None Director notifies claimant in writing of D.C. Code § decision. 11. Within 30 days Claimant may file an application for re- D.C. Code § of Step 10 view with the D.C. Court of Appeals. 2. Plaintiffs' Allegations Tara RogersRogers was injured on three occasions: 1) January 1, 1998, 2) April 27, 1998, and 3) February 4, 2002. It is unclear what process was afforded Rogers in relation to each of these injuries. While the Amended Complaint only references Roger's February 4, 2002, injury, the documents provided by plaintiffs reference primarily the January 1, 1998, and February 4, 2002, injury dates. In addition, claim number 552 is used both in reference to the January 1, 1998, and February 4, 2002, injuries. It could be that the primary injury occurred on January 1, 1998, and that a reoccurrence of that injury occurred on February 4, 2002, or it could be that one claims number was assigned to both injuries. The Court simply cannot tell from the documents provided.
Patricia Hayden
The record is unclear as to how many times Hayden was injured. In different documents, there are indications that she was injured on six separate dates: 1) February 2, 1996, 2) February 9, 1996, 3) February 14, 1996, 4) November 30, 1998, 5) December 15, 1999, and 6) November 30, 2005. While it is possible that Hayden was in fact injured on each of those dates, it is also possible that some of the dates identify recurrences of previous injuries or are typographical errors. The record is simply too unclear to reach any definitive conclusions as to what has occurred with regard to Hayden's various claims for disability compensation. For example, even as to the decision issued by DCP on April 24, 2007, while the caption references an injury date of November 30, 2005, as noted above, the text of the decision references the same $33,203.88 amount which earlier documents indicated was an amount paid Hayden for compensation as to her February 9, 1996, injury. The Court therefore cannot draw any conclusions as to Hayden's claims.George Morgan
Morgan was injured on May 10, 1983. DEX 18; PEX 153. On August 3, 2007, Morgan received a final decision from DCP and was told that he had until September 1, 2007, to file for a hearing, as described in Step 6 of the above chart. PEX 161 at 1, 3. There is no evidence in the record that Morgan did so and therefore his claim that he has neither received the claimed benefits nor a hearing is without merit.
Denise Downing
Downing was injured on October 12, 1992. PEX 164 at 1. On December 12, 2002, Downing requested a formal hearing, PEX 170 at 1, and a pre-hearing conference was set by OHA for January 24, 2003. PEX 21 at 1; DEX 7 at 2. There is no information in the record as to whether or not a hearing date was set or if a hearing was ever held.
Juanita Irving
Irving was injured on May 31, 2001. DEX 8 at 1; PEX 137. After exhausting all available administrative remedies, Irving filed a claim with the D.C. Court of Appeals. PEX 151 at 1-14. On April 16, 2004, the D.C. Court of Appeals denied Irving's petition but did so without prejudice to renew. There is no evidence in the record that she ever renewed her petition and so therefore her claim that she has neither received the claimed benefits nor a hearing is without merit.
James Winstead
Winstead was injured on 1) July 12, 1990, 2) September 14, 1991, 3) September 19, 1992, and 4) January 12, 1994. PEX 87. On July 10, 2003, DCP issued a decision regarding Winstead's request for disability compensation relating to injuries occurring on all four days. He was also told that had thirty days within which to file for reconsideration. Winstead's request for reconsideration was received on September 12, 2003, and therefore it was denied as untimely by DCP. PEX 104 at 1. Although Winstead was told that he could file for a hearing with OHA by August 30, 2006, as described in Step 6 of the above chart, there is no evidence in the record that he did so and therefore his claim that he has neither received the claimed benefits nor a hearing is without merit.
Louis Beale
Beale was injured on August 13, 2001. PEX 1 at 1. On July 16, 2002, Beale was informed that his claim for disability compensation was being denied because his medical condition was not causally related to his injury. PEX 15. At that point, Beale was told that he had thirty days within which to request reconsideration. Beale's request for reconsideration, however, was not filed until August 21, 2002, and therefore, on June 2, 2006, Beale's final petition for reconsideration was denied as untimely. Beale received all the process that he was due and therefore his claim that he has neither received the claimed benefits nor a hearing is without merit.
Patricia Newby
Newby was injured on November 30, 1998, PEX 48, and on April 2, 2001. DEX 12 at 1; PEX 43. With regard to her November 30, 1998, injury, it appears that her request for disability compensation benefits were denied by letter dated June 24, 2002, although that letter was not included by plaintiffs as one of the exhibits. See PEX 51. It would appear as though Newby would have had thirty days from her receipt of that denial to request reconsideration, as described in Step 4 of the above chart. Because there is no evidence in the record that Newby ever did so, her claim that she has neither received the claimed benefits nor a hearing is therefore without merit.
Similarly, with regard to her April 2, 2001, injury, whether viewed as a separate incident or as a recurrence of the November 30, 1998, injury, the record indicates that on August 2, 2002, Newby was notified that her case was being referred back to the claims adjuster for various purposes. Upon receipt of that decision, Newby had thirty days within which to request a hearing, as described in Step 6 of the above chart. See PEX 46 at 4 (indicating that an application for formal hearing was enclosed). Because there is no evidence in the record that Newby ever requested such a hearing, her claim that she has neither received the claimed benefits nor a hearing is therefore without merit.
Sheila Owens
Owens was injured on February 17, 2004. PEX 189 at 1. On May 19, 2006, Owens was notified that her disability compensation claim had been accepted. PEX 197 at 1. Upon receipt of that decision, Owens had thirty days within which to either request reconsideration or request a hearing, as described in Step 6 of the above chart. Because there is no evidence in the record that Owens did either, her claim that she has neither received the claimed benefits or a hearing is therefore without merit.
Mary Waley
Waley was injured on August 5, 1994. On April 23, 2007, Waley was notified that an earlier decision to reduce her benefits had been upheld. Upon receipt of that decision, Waley had until May 22, 2007, to request a hearing, as described in Step 6 of the above chart. PEX 42 at 6. Because there is no evidence in the record that Waley ever requested such a hearing, her claim that she has neither received the claimed benefits nor a hearing is therefore without merit.
3. The Court's Conclusions
After an extensive review of the record, the Court concludes that there exist genuine issues of material fact as to three of the ten plaintiffs named in the District's motion. These plaintiffs are: 1) Rogers, 2) Hayden, and 3) Downing. As to the remaining seven plaintiffs, there are no genuine issues of material fact. The record simply does not support plaintiffs' contention that these seven plaintiffs suffered any delay. To the contrary, the record clearly indicates that their claims were processed according to the relevant statutory requirements of the CMPA but that rather than continue to press their claims through the administrative process and then through the D.C. Court of Appeals as mandated by the CMPA, plaintiffs decided instead to file suit in District Court. Thus, as to the following seven plaintiffs, defendants are entitled to judgment as a matter of law: 1) Morgan, 2) Irving, 3) Winstead, 4) Beale, 5) Newby, 6) Owens, and 7) Waley.
III. Remaining Plaintiffs
Defendants only moved to dismiss and/or for summary judgment as to ten of the thirteen plaintiffs. Defendants did not seek dismissal and/or summary judgment as to 1) Davis, 2) the estate of Lyles, and 3) the estate of Rasheed. Thus, trial in this matter shall resolve the claims of the following six remaining plaintiffs: 1) Rogers, 2) Hayden, 3) Downing, 4) Davis, 5) the estate of Lyles, and 6) the estate of Rasheed.
An Order accompanies this Memorandum Opinion.
ORDER
In accordance with the accompanying Memorandum Opinion, it is, hereby,
ORDERED that the District of Columbia Defendant's Motion to Dismiss or in the Alternative, for Summary Judgment [# 48] is GRANTED in part and DENIED in part.
SO ORDERED.