Sec. 20-106. Appeals

Any party aggrieved by a decision or action of the Director with respect to the issuance of a violation notice or the denial, suspension or revocation of a license or certificate pursuant to this Subtitle or a dispute, shall have the right to appeal any such decision or action to the Board within ten (10) calendar days after the date of the issuance of the violation notice or such other decision or action by the Director or the company or association.

Notice of an appeal shall be filed in writing with the Director or his designee, who shall promptly forward it to the Board. Upon filing of an appeal, the provisions of subsections (f) shall be in effect.

The Board shall hear all appeals within sixty (60) days of the filing of the appeal. At least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the date set for the hearing, the Board shall notify all parties to the proceeding in writing of the date, time, and place set for the hearing, the subject of the appeal, and the right to present testimony and to be represented by counsel. The notice shall be served on the parties by personal delivery or by registered or certified mail.

Hearings shall be public. The Board may hear any evidence which is relevant and probative; strict rules of evidence shall not apply. All witnesses shall give testimony under oath or affirmation.

The Board shall issue written findings of fact and conclusions and an order affirming, modifying, or setting aside the notice or licensing action within thirty (30) days after the hearing.

Except in an emergency, as certified by the Director in writing, an appeal will stay any further action, but only for a period of ninety (90) days or until the Board issues its written decision, whichever is less. In the case of an emergency, the Board shall make every effort to provide an expedited hearing and decision if so requested by either party.

Any party aggrieved by a decision of the Board may file an appeal in the Circuit Court for Prince George's County. All appeals shall be on the record and shall be governed by the Maryland Rules governing appeals from administrative agencies.