<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" citation="COMAR 10.25.15.03" title_num="10" subtitle_num="25" chapter_num="15" heading="Procedure for Initial State Designation.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>Application.</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>An entity seeking MSO State Designation shall submit an application in a form and manner specified by the Commission.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>The application shall be signed by an individual authorized by the entity submitting the application.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>Requirements for State Designation. An applicant for MSO State Designation shall:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Demonstrate that it meets all MSO State Designation criteria in effect at the date of application;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Affirm that the applicant, a related entity, or a person or entity that is a principal, owner, operator, or part of management of the entity has never:</text>
      <paragraph num="(a)">
        <text>Pleaded guilty to, been convicted of, or received probation before judgment or similar diversionary disposition for a crime related to the operation of an MSO or for a crime involving fraud, dishonesty, or false dealing; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(b)">
        <text>Been found in violation of State or federal laws or regulations governing the operation of an MSO;</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Provide all required documentation;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>Timely provide additional information requested by the Commission as needed to complete the application; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(5)">
      <text>Agree to comply with the requirements of this chapter.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="C.">
    <text>Review of Applications.</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Commission staff shall review an application to determine compliance with the State Designation criteria.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>The Executive Director may approve or deny an application for State Designation, as follows:</text>
      <paragraph num="(a)">
        <text>The Executive Director shall award State Designation to an MSO that meets the requirements set forth in this chapter; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(b)">
        <text>If the Executive Director determines that an application should be denied, the Executive Director shall, within 30 days of receipt of a complete application, notify the applicant in writing of the decision, and include the reasons for denial.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="D.">
    <text>Duration of State Designation.</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>State Designation is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance of an MSO State Designation certificate, unless suspended or revoked by the Commission.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>An MSO awarded State Designation shall accept the designation in writing and agree to the comply with the requirements of this chapter.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>