Contract analysis

I. Concerns Regarding the Pace of the Investigation The investigation was formally opened on May 2, 2023 — now more than nine weeks ago. Ms. Morales's initial complaint, however, predates even that milestone. She filed her complaint via the Meridian Compliance Solutions Ethics & Compliance Hotline on April 18, 2023, and the matter was assigned case reference number MCS-2023-04871. That filing was made nearly eleven w

II. Ms. Morales's Current Employment Situation and Ongoing Concerns We are aware that Marcus Hale was placed on paid administrative leave on May 3, 2023, and that his access to company email, Meridian Solutions, and internal systems was suspended at that time. We appreciate that this step was taken promptly following the formal opening of the investigation, and we acknowledge it as an appropriate preliminary measure.

III. Specific Requests for Interim Protective Measures In light of the foregoing, and in order to ensure that Ms. Morales's rights are adequately protected during the pendency of this investigation and beyond, we respectfully request that the following interim protective measures be implemented immediately: A. Formal Written Anti-Retaliation Assurance. We request a formal written assurance, issued jointly by Aurelius

IV. Reservation of Rights Ms. Morales reserves all rights, claims, and remedies available to her under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, California Government Code sections 12940 et seq., and under any other applicable federal, state, or local law. These reserved rights include, but are not limited to, the right to file a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (formerly known as the Depar

V. Request for Prompt Response We respectfully request a written response to this letter within ten (10) business days of receipt, i.e., no later than July 21, 2023. We ask that the response address each of the five specific requests set forth in Section III above, and that it be accompanied by any written documentation evidencing the implementation of the requested protective measures. If satisfactory assurances are