(a) Before initiating a grievance proceeding, a classified employee shall present the matter orally to the employee’s supervisor for informal discussion.

(b) A grievance proceeding must be initiated by a classified employee within 30 days after:

(1) The occurrence of the alleged act that is the basis for the grievance; or

(2) The employee first knew or reasonably should have known of the alleged act that is the basis for the grievance.