<subtitle num="01" heading="Administration"> <chapter num="01" heading="Conflicts Policy"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“ALJ” means an individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Appointed as an Administrative Law Judge pursuant to the requirements established under State Government Article, §9-1604(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Designated pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1607, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Chief ALJ” means the individual appointed as head of the Office pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1603, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Employee” means a contractual, temporary, or permanent employee of the Office at the time the action that gave rise to the hearing request arose.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Member of the employee’s family or household” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A parent, spouse, sibling, or child of the employee; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A relative or other person who shares the employee’s legal residence, or over whose affairs the employee has legal or actual control.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Selection of Substituted ALJs."> <text>A proceeding before the Office in which an employee of the Office or a member of the employee’s household is a party may be heard by an individual designated by the Chief ALJ pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1607, Annotated Code of Maryland, who meets the requirements established under State Government Article, §9-1604(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland, and who is not an Office employee.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">State Government Article, §§9-1604 and 9-1607, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: September 16, 1991 (18:18 Md. R. 2009)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 672); January 8, 2001 (27:26 Md. R. 2360); January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective January 20, 1992 (19:1 Md. R. 35)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended as an emergency provision effective July 8, 1993 (20:15 Md. R. 1219); amended permanently effective January 7, 1994 (20:25 Md. R. 1950)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Security and Decorum"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“ALJ” means an individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Appointed as an Administrative Law Judge pursuant to the requirements established under State Government Article, §9-1604(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Designated pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1607, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Chief ALJ” means the individual appointed as head of the Office pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1603, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Dangerous or Toxic Item.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Dangerous or toxic item” means an object or substance that:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Is capable of causing physical harm, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Otherwise poses a threat to health or safety.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Dangerous or toxic item” includes, but is not limited to, chemicals and sharp objects.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Firearm” means a device capable of propelling a projectile by gunpowder or other means, including, but not limited to, a rifle, shotgun, or handgun.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Office facility” means a building in which a hearing, mediation, or other Office proceeding takes place.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Office proceeding” means any type or stage of legal process scheduled by the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Police officer” means an individual who is authorized to make arrests in an official governmental capacity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Weapon.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Weapon” means a device capable of inflicting bodily injury or destroying property.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Weapon” includes, but is not limited to:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A firearm, crossbow or longbow, knife, club, razor, box cutter, nunchaku, or stun gun;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Metal knuckles, pepper spray, or mace; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Any other device or object designed to be, or capable of being, used to inflict pain or cause injury.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Prohibited Items or Substances and Weapons Policy."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Dangerous or toxic items and weapons. Except as provided in §B of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Dangerous or toxic items and weapons are prohibited at Office proceedings and facilities;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Dangerous or toxic items and weapons brought into an Office proceeding or facility may be confiscated; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If a prohibited item or weapon is brought into an Office proceeding or facility:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The proceeding may be suspended or rescheduled; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The individual involved may be removed from the Office proceeding or facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Weapons Exceptions. Subject to §C of this regulation, the following individuals may possess a weapon in an Office proceeding or facility:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Police officers acting in their official capacity who:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Have been summonsed to appear at an Office proceeding; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Are representing their employer in an Office proceeding; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Individuals employed to provide security services at an Office proceeding or facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Police officers authorized to possess a weapon in an Office proceeding under §B(1) of this regulation who are carrying a concealed weapon shall notify the Office prior to the beginning of the proceeding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Illegal Substances.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Illegal substances are prohibited in Office proceedings and facilities.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If an illegal substance is brought into an Office proceeding or facility:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The illegal substance may be confiscated;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The proceeding may be suspended or rescheduled; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The individual involved may be removed from the Office facility or proceeding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Decorum and Security."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Parties, their authorized representatives, witnesses, and other persons present at an Office proceeding shall conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the standards of decorum commonly observed in a court.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Disrespectful, disorderly, disruptive, contemptuous, vulgar, or violent conduct or language, refusal to comply with directions, or continued use of dilatory tactics constitutes grounds for immediate exclusion from an Office proceeding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A person who presents a threat to safety or who is disrupting Office operations or an Office proceeding may be removed from the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Office proceeding;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Office facility; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Premises.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">State Government Article, §9-1604, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 24, 2017 (44:8 Md. R. 407)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Administrative Law Judge Discipline and Reassignment of Duties"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“ALJ” means an individual appointed as an Administrative Law Judge pursuant to the requirements established under State Government Article, §9-1604(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Charges” means a written statement of cause for imposing discipline against an ALJ pursuant to State Personnel and Pensions Article, §11-104, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Chief ALJ” means the individual appointed as head of the Office pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1603, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Executive ALJ” means an ALJ appointed as the Director or Deputy Director of Operations, the Director or Deputy Director of Quality Assurance, or other position that the Chief ALJ designates as an executive ALJ position.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Filed” means that a document is postmarked or received in accordance with COMAR 28.02.01.04D.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Probationary ALJ” means an ALJ during the first year after appointment as an ALJ.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Notice of Charges."> <text>The Chief ALJ shall provide an ALJ with written notice of any charges.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Burden of Proof."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An ALJ who has been notified of charges may file a written appeal with the Chief ALJ within 10 days after the Chief ALJ notifies the ALJ of the charges.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the ALJ does not file a timely appeal, or does not appear at the scheduled hearing, the charges may be upheld.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>On appeal, the Office bears the burden of proving the charges by a preponderance of the evidence.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Time of Hearing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Within 90 days after filing an appeal, the ALJ shall have an opportunity to be heard on the charges.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Chief ALJ may postpone the hearing beyond the 90-day period for good cause.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Hearing by Chief ALJ; Final Decision."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Chief ALJ may conduct the hearing on an appeal of charges.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>When the Chief ALJ conducts the hearing:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The hearing may be closed to the public; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Chief ALJ shall issue the final decision of the Office.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The final decision shall be in writing and:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be issued within 90 days of the close of the record;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Be sent by certified mail to the ALJ and the ALJ’s representative, if any; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Findings of fact;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Conclusions of law; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Notice that an aggrieved party may seek judicial review of the decision in accordance with State Government Article, §10-222, Annotated Code of Maryland, and the Maryland Rules governing Judicial Review of Administrative Agency Decisions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Hearing by Designee; Proposed Decision."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Chief ALJ may designate an individual who is not an employee of the Office and who meets the qualifications established under State Government Article, §9-1604(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland, to conduct a hearing on the appeal of charges.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>When the Chief ALJ designates an individual to conduct the hearing on an appeal of charges:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Administrative Procedure Act, State Government Article, §10-212, Annotated Code of Maryland, shall apply; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The designated individual shall issue a proposed decision in accordance with State Government Article, §§10-216(a) and 10-220(d), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The proposed decision shall be in writing and:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be issued within 30 days of the close of the record;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Be sent by certified mail to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The ALJ who filed the appeal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Chief ALJ; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The parties’ counsel of record; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Findings of fact and conclusions of law; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Notice in accordance with State Government Article, §10-216(a), Annotated Code of Maryland, that:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Written exceptions may be filed with the Office within 15 days after the proposed decision is mailed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Oral argument may be requested in writing at the time that exceptions are filed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Oral Argument."> <text>If oral argument is requested:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Chief ALJ shall notify the parties by certified mail of the date, time, and place of the argument; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The argument shall be scheduled to occur within 30 days after the exceptions and request for argument were filed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Filing of Exceptions; Oral Argument."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Within 15 days after the proposed decision is postmarked, a party adversely affected may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>File with the Chief Judge written exceptions; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Request oral argument on the exceptions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Chief Judge shall notify the parties of the date, time, and place of the argument. The argument shall be presented within 30 days from receipt by the Chief Judge of the exceptions and request to present argument.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Final Decision on Exceptions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Time Periods for Issuance of Final Decision.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If oral argument is held, the Chief ALJ shall issue the final decision within 45 days after conclusion of the argument.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If written exceptions are filed, but no request for oral argument is made, the Chief ALJ shall issue the final decision within 45 days after the written exceptions were filed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If no written exceptions are filed, the Chief ALJ shall issue the final decision within 30 days after the proposed decision was mailed to the parties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In the written decision, the Chief ALJ may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Restore the ALJ to their position without loss of pay;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Suspend the ALJ without pay for a specified period;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Demote the ALJ;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Remove the ALJ from their position; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Require that other action be taken as indicated by the findings in the case.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Termination on Probation."> <text>A probationary ALJ may appeal termination only on the grounds that the termination is illegal or unconstitutional.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Executive Duties."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Executive ALJs serve at the pleasure of the Chief ALJ, who may assign, reassign, or remove executive duties without cause at any time. The assignment, reassignment, or removal of executive duties is not appealable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Chief ALJ shall notify an executive ALJ of the removal of executive duties at least 14 days prior to the effective date of the removal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Chief ALJ may permit an Executive ALJ whose executive duties have been removed to continue to serve as an ALJ.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If the Chief ALJ determines not to permit the individual to continue to serve as an ALJ:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A Notice of Charges shall be issued in accordance with Regulation .02 of this chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The procedures specified in Regulations .03 through .09 of this chapter shall apply.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">State Government Article, §§9-1604 and 10-206, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: September 16, 1991 (18:18 Md. R. 2009)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Public Information Act Requests"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="General."> <text>This chapter sets out procedures under the Public Information Act for filing and processing requests to the Office of Administrative Hearings for the inspection and copying of public records of the Office.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Policy."> <text>It is the policy of the Office of Administrative Hearings to facilitate access to the public records of the Office, if access is allowed by law, by minimizing costs and time delays to applicants.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Act” means the Public Information Act, General Provisions Article, §§4-101—4-601, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Applicant” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(b), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Board” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Chief ALJ” means the individual appointed as head of the Office pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1603, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Copy” means any form of reproduction using a photocopying machine or other reproduction technology, including a paper copy, an electronic copy, a printout, or an image.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Custodian” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(d), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Filed” means that a document is postmarked or received in accordance with COMAR 28.02.01.04D.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Indigent” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-206(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Metadata” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-205(a), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Official custodian” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(f), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Public Access Ombudsman” means the official appointed under General Provisions Article, Title 4, Subtitle 1B, Annotated Code of Maryland, to resolve disputes under the Act.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Public record” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(j), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Reasonable fee” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-206(a)(3), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Working day” means a day on which the Office is open from 8 am until 4:30 pm.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Deputy Director, Operations as Official Custodian."> <text>Unless otherwise provided by law, the Deputy Director of Operations is the official custodian of the public records of the Office.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Who May Request Public Records."> <text>Any person may request to inspect or copy public records of the Office.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Necessity for Written Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Inspection.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the custodian shall make public records of the Office available for inspection by an applicant without demanding a written request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The custodian shall require a written request if the custodian reasonably believes that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Act or any other law may prohibit the disclosure of the public record to the applicant; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A written request will materially assist the Office in responding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Copies. If the applicant requests a copy of any public record of the Office, the custodian may require a written request.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Contents of Written Request."> <text>A written request shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Contain the applicant’s name and address;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Be signed by the applicant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Reasonably identify, by brief description, the public record sought.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Addressee."> <text>A request to inspect or copy a public record of the Office shall be addressed to the custodian of the record. If the custodian is unknown, the request may be addressed to the Chief Judge or the custodian.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Response to Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the custodian decides to grant a request for inspection, the custodian shall produce the public record for inspection:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Immediately; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Within a reasonable time period, not to exceed 30 days after the date of the request, if additional time is needed to retrieve the public record and conduct any necessary review.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the custodian reasonably believes that it will take more than 10 working days to produce the public record, the custodian shall so indicate in writing or by electronic mail within 10 working days after receipt of the request:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The amount of time that the custodian anticipates it will take to produce the public record;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An estimate of the range of fees that may be charged to comply with the request for public records; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The reason it will take more than 10 working days to produce the records.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a request is denied, the custodian shall provide the applicant, at the time of the denial or within 10 working days, a written statement that gives:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The reason for the denial, including, for records denied under General Provisions Article, §4-343, Annotated Code of Maryland, a brief explanation of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Why denial is necessary; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Why the harm from disclosure of the public record would be greater than the public interest in providing access to the information in the public record such that disclosure of the public record would be contrary to the public interest;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The legal authority for the denial;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Without disclosing the protected information, a brief description of the undisclosed records that will enable the applicant to assess the applicability of the legal authority for the denial; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Notice of the remedies available for review of the denial.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If a requested public record is not in the custody or control of the person to whom application is made, that person shall, within 10 working days after receipt of the request, notify the applicant:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>That the person does not have custody or control of the requested public record; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the person knows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name of the custodian of the public record; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The location or possible location of the public record.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Any time limit imposed by §§A and B of this regulation may be extended:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>With the consent of the applicant, for an additional period of up to 30 days; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For the period of time during which a dispute initiated by the applicant is pending before the Public Access Ombudsman.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Notice to Person Possibly Affected by Disclosure."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless prohibited by law, the custodian may provide notice of a request for inspection or copying of any public record of the Office to any person who, in the judgment of the custodian, could be adversely affected by disclosure of the public record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The custodian may consider the views of the possibly affected person before deciding whether to disclose the public record to an applicant.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Electronic Records."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in §§C and D of this regulation, the custodian shall provide an applicant with a copy of the public record in a searchable and analyzable electronic format if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The public record is in a searchable and analyzable electronic format;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The applicant requests a copy of the public record in a searchable and analyzable electronic format; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The custodian is able to provide a copy of the public record, in whole or in part, in a searchable and analyzable electronic format that does not disclose information that is exempt from disclosure under the Act.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The custodian shall provide a portion of the public record in a searchable and analyzable electronic format if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Requested by the applicant, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The custodian is able to do so by using the existing functions of the database or software program that contains the searchable and analyzable data.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The custodian is not required to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Create or reconstruct a public record in an electronic format if the public record is not available in an electronic format; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Release an electronic record in a format that would jeopardize or compromise the security or integrity of the original record or of any proprietary software in which the record is maintained.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The custodian may remove metadata from an electronic document before providing the electronic record to an applicant by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Using a software program or function; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Converting the electronic record into a different searchable and analyzable format.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Public Record Destroyed or Lost."> <text>If the person to whom application is made knows that a requested public record of the Office has been destroyed or lost, the person shall promptly:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notify the applicant that the public record is not available; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Explain the reasons why the public record cannot be produced.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Review of Denial."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the custodian denies a request to inspect or copy a public record of the Office, the applicant may file an action for judicial enforcement under General Provisions Article, §4-362, Annotated Code of Maryland, without pursuing the remedies set forth in §§B and C of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the custodian charges a fee of more than $350 under Regulation .15 of this chapter, the applicant may, within 90 days after the date the fee is imposed, file a written complaint with the Board under General Provisions Article, §4-1A-05(a), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The applicant and the custodian each may contact the Public Access Ombudsman to resolve, under General Provisions Article, Title 4, Subtitle 1B, Annotated Code of Maryland, a dispute relating to requests for public records.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Disclosure Against Public Interest."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Denial Pending Court Order.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If, in the opinion of the Chief ALJ, disclosure of a public record of the Office otherwise subject to disclosure under the Act would do substantial injury to the public interest, the Chief ALJ may temporarily deny the request and seek a court order allowing nondisclosure.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A temporary denial shall be in writing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Circuit Court Review.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Within 10 working days after the denial, the Chief ALJ shall apply to the appropriate circuit court for an order permitting continued denial or restriction of access.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Notice of the Chief ALJ’s complaint shall be served on the applicant in the manner provided for service of process by the Maryland Rules.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Copies. Except as provided in §§B and C of this regulation, the fees for reproducing public records of the Office in the form of copies, printouts, or photographs, and for certifying the reproductions, are as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Reproduction.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>For each reproduction made other than by a photocopying machine within the Office, the actual cost of reproduction; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For each copy made by a photocopying machine within the Office, 25 cents per page.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Certification. If a person requests that a reproduction of a public record be certified as a true copy, an additional fee of $1 per page (or if appropriate, per item) shall be charged.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Minimum Fee. No charge will be made if the total fee is $10 or less.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Notwithstanding §A of this regulation, if the fee for reproduction or certification of a public record of the Office is specifically set by a law other than the Act or this regulation, the custodian shall charge the prescribed fee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If the custodian cannot reproduce a public record within the Office, the custodian shall arrange for the prompt reproduction of the public record and either:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Collect from the applicant a fee equal to the actual cost of reproduction; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Direct the applicant to pay the cost of reproduction directly to the reproduction facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Before reproducing a public record of the Office, the custodian shall estimate the cost of reproduction and either:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Obtain the agreement of the applicant to pay the cost; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Require prepayment of all or a portion of the cost.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Search and Preparation Fee.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §F of this regulation, the custodian may charge a reasonable fee for time that an official or employee of the Office spends to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Search for requested public records;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Review requested public records for potential disclosure; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Prepare public records for inspection and reproduction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The custodian shall determine the fee under §E(1) of this regulation by multiplying the employee’s salary, prorated to an hourly basis, by the actual time attributable to the search for, review of, and preparation of public records for inspection and reproduction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The custodian may not charge a fee under §E of this regulation for the first 2 hours spent searching for and preparing public records for inspection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Waiver or Reduction of Fees.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The official custodian may waive or reduce a fee under this regulation if:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The applicant requests a waiver; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Either:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The custodian determines that the waiver or reduction is in the public interest; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The applicant is indigent and files an Affidavit of Indigence or other affidavit sufficient to support a claim of indigence pursuant to COMAR 28.03.01.06B.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In determining whether a fee is in the public interest, the custodian shall consider relevant factors, including the ability of the applicant to pay the fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>If the applicant requests that a reproduction of a public record be mailed or delivered to the applicant or to a third party, the custodian may charge the applicant for the cost of postage or delivery.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Time and Place of Inspection."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An applicant may inspect a public record of the Office that the applicant is entitled to inspect during the normal working hours of the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The inspection shall occur where the public record is located, unless the custodian, after considering an applicant’s express request, determines that another place is more suitable and convenient.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">General Provisions Article, §§4-101—4-103, 4-201—4-362, and 4-503;State Government Article, §9-1604; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: September 16, 1991 (18:18 Md. R. 2009)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 672)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11B amended as an emergency provision effective July 8, 1993 (20:15 Md. R. 1219); amended permanently effective January 7, 1994 (20:25 Md. R. 1950)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .13A amended effective January 20, 1992 (19:1 Md. R. 35); May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 672)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.15 repealed and new Regulations .01—.16 adopted effective April 11, 2016 (43:7 Md. R. 452)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09B amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .14 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .15 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Correction or Amendment of Public Records"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter sets out procedures under which a person in interest may request the correction or amendment of public records of the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Act” means the Public Information Act, General Provisions Article, §§4-101—4-601, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Applicant” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(b), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Chief ALJ” means the individual appointed as head of the Office pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1603, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Custodian” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(d), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Filed” means that a document is postmarked or received in accordance with COMAR 28.02.01.04D.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Person in interest” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(g), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Public record” has the meaning stated in General Provisions Article, §4-101(j), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Who May Request."> <text>A person in interest may request that the Office correct or amend any public record that:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Office keeps; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The person in interest is authorized to inspect.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Contents of Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person in interest shall make a request to correct or amend a public record in writing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The request shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Identify the public record to be corrected or amended;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>State the precise correction or amendment requested;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>State the reason for the correction or amendment; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Include a statement that, to the best of the requester’s belief, the public record is inaccurate or incomplete.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Addressee."> <text>Unless otherwise provided by law, requests to correct or amend a public record of the Office shall be addressed to the Deputy Director of Operations, who is the official custodian of the public records of the Office.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Return of Nonconforming Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Office shall accept a request to correct or amend a public record when received if it reasonably complies with Regulations .04 and .05 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the request does not reasonably comply with Regulations .04 and .05 of this chapter, the Office shall return the request to the requester with:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An explanation of the reason for the return; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A statement that, on receipt of a request that reasonably complies with Regulations .04 and .05 of this chapter, the request will be accepted.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Response to Request."> <text>Within 30 days after the Office receives a request for correction or amendment that reasonably complies with Regulations .04 and .05 of this chapter, the custodian shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Make the requested correction or amendment, and inform the requester in writing of the action; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Inform the requester in writing that the Office will not:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Make the requested correction or amendment, and the reason for the refusal; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Act on the request:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Because the requester is not a person in interest;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Because the requester is not authorized to inspect the record; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>For any other reason authorized by law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Statement of Disagreement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If the Office refuses to make a requested correction or amendment, a person in interest may file with the Office a concise, written statement of disagreement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The statement of disagreement shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be on pages not larger than 8-1/2 x 11 inches in size;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Use only one side of each page;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Consist of not more than five pages, double spaced, in 12-point font;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Explain the reason for the requested correction or amendment; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Explain the basis for the disagreement with the stated reason for the Office’s refusal to make the correction or amendment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Providing Copy of Statement of Disagreement."> <text>If a person in interest files a statement of disagreement concerning a public record under Regulation .08 of this chapter, the Office shall provide a copy of the statement whenever the Office discloses the public record to a third party.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Administrative Review."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A person may request administrative review under this regulation if the Office:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Has refused the person’s request to correct or amend a public record under Regulation .07 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Has rejected the person’s statement of disagreement under Regulation .08 of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Has not provided a statement of disagreement to a third party under Regulation .10 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A request for review shall be filed with the Chief ALJ within 30 days after the requester is advised of the Office’s action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The review proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland, and COMAR 28.02.01.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">General Provisions Article, §4-502; State Government Article, §9-1604; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: September 16, 1991 (18:18 Md. R. 2009)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11C amended as an emergency provision effective July 8, 1993 (20:15 Md. R. 1219); amended permanently effective January 7, 1994 (20:25 Md. R. 1950)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.11 repealed and new Regulations .01—.11 adopted effective April 11, 2016 (43:7 Md. R. 452)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter revised effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="02" heading="Rules of Procedure"> <chapter num="01" heading="Rules of Procedure"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Applicability. This chapter applies to all proceedings before the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This chapter shall be construed to ensure the fair and expeditious determination of every action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Subject to §D of this regulation, this chapter supplements the procedures required by law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Unless federal or State law requires that a federal or State procedure shall be observed, this chapter takes precedence in the event of conflict.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Affidavit” means a written statement, signed under penalties of perjury, affirming that the statements it contains are true:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Based upon the affiant’s personal knowledge; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>To the best of the affiant’s knowledge, information, and belief.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Agency” means a unit of government the action of which gives rise to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A contested case hearing under State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Any other proceeding before the Office.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“ALJ” means an individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Appointed as an Administrative Law Judge pursuant to the requirements established under State Government Article, §9-1604(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Designated as an Administrative Law Judge pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1607, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Authorized representative” means an attorney or, when permitted by applicable law, another individual.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Certified mail” means mail deposited with the United States Postal Service, postage prepaid, return receipt requested.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Docket Entry.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Docket entry” means the filing of a pleading or case status report by a party to an Office proceeding, or a request for the scheduling of an Office proceeding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Docket entry” does not include the entry or withdrawal of appearance of counsel.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Filed” means that a document is postmarked or received in accordance with Regulation .04D of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Final decision maker” means the person or entity authorized by law or delegation to render the final decision in a contested case or other proceeding before the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Initial pleading” means a notice of agency action, a request for a hearing on an agency action, or any other transmittal that initiates a proceeding scheduled by the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Law” means State and federal constitutions, statutes, regulations, and relevant case law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Office business hours” means 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on a day that is not a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Office proceeding” means any type or stage of legal process, remote or in person, scheduled by the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Party” means a person named or permitted to participate in a case before the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, representative, corporation, or other entity, including a public or nonprofit corporation, or an agency or instrumentality of federal, State, or local government.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Proposed decision” means a document issued pursuant to a delegation under State Government Article, §10-205(b), Annotated Code of Maryland, authorizing one or more of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Proposed findings of fact;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Proposed conclusions of law; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A proposed order.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Remote proceeding” means any Office proceeding conducted in whole or part by telephone or other audio means, by video or other audio-visual means, or by a combination of in-person, audio, and audio-visual means.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Transmittal of Request for Hearing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Initiation. A hearing may be initiated:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>On transmittal forms provided by the Office and accompanied by copies of all pertinent documents;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>On forms provided by the agency; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In any other manner permitted by law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A hearing request shall include and be accompanied by the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The name of the person requesting the hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The mailing address of the person requesting the hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The email address and phone number of the person requesting the hearing or an affirmative statement that this information is not available;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The notice of agency action regarding which, or the name of the party against whom, the hearing request has been filed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>An affirmative statement that the person requesting the hearing consents or declines to consent to electronic delivery of notice to the email address provided to the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Additional documents and fees required by this chapter or COMAR 28.03.01; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Other information required by law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Dismissal. A case may be dismissed if an initial pleading is received without an item required by §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Unless a case is dismissed pursuant to §C of this regulation, a hearing request received without an item required by §B of this regulation may be returned to the person requesting the hearing for resubmission with all of the required items. Return of the initial pleading under this section does not extend the time within which the initial pleading is required to be filed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>During the pendency of an action, a party shall notify the Office of a change in the party’s mailing address, email address, and phone number.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Commencement of Case; Computation of Time; Filing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless otherwise provided for by law, the Office acquires jurisdiction over a matter and a case commences when a person files a transmittal or an initial pleading with the Office:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Pursuant to a delegation of authority under State Government Article, §10-205, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>As otherwise directed by an agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Timeliness. An initial pleading is timely when it is filed:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Within the time period specified by relevant law; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If no time period is specified, within 30 days of the date of the notice of contested action.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Computation of Time. Unless otherwise provided by law:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In computing a period of time, the day of the act, event, or default after which the designated period of time begins to run shall not be included.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When computing a period of fewer than 8 days, intermediate Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays shall not be included.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>When computing a period of time for filing a document at the Office:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The last day shall be included;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the last day falls on a Saturday, Sunday, holiday, or other day on which the Office is not open the entire day during Office business hours, the period runs until the end of the next day on which the Office is open the entire day during Office business hours.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Filing. Unless otherwise provided by law:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An initial pleading is deemed to be filed on the earlier of the date that a request for hearing, along with all required fees, necessary documents, and other information, is postmarked or received by the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Office, if required to be filed with the Office; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Agency, if required to be filed with the agency;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Other pleadings are deemed to be filed on the earliest of the date on which they are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Addressed to the Office and postmarked;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>With the permission of and in compliance with an order issued by an ALJ, emailed to and received by the Office; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Received by the Office; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Non-postmarked documents delivered or electronically transmitted to the Office after the close of Office business hours are deemed to be filed on the next day on which the Office is open for business.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Notice."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Reasonable written notice of a hearing shall be provided to the parties.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A hearing notice provided by the Office shall contain:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The nature of the hearing and the date, time, and physical address, remote URL location and meeting number, or telephone number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A statement of the right to present witnesses and documents, or other evidence, and the right to cross-examine any witness that another party calls under State Government Article, §10-213(f), Annotated Code of Maryland, if applicable;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A statement of the right to request subpoenas for witnesses and evidence, and specifying the costs, if any, associated with the request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A statement that a copy of the hearing procedures is available on request, and specifying the costs, if any, associated with the request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A statement of any rights, restrictions, or requirements pertaining to representation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A statement that failure to appear for the scheduled hearing may result in an adverse action against that party; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A statement that, unless otherwise prohibited by law, the parties may agree to the evidence and may waive their right to appear at the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Method of Giving Notice.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as otherwise required by law, a notice issued by the Office shall be sent to the parties by United States mail, by personal delivery, by courier delivery at their addresses on record with the Office, or, with the consent of the party, electronically.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If notice is given by United States mail, the notice is effective at the end of the 5th day after its deposit in the mail.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Proof that notice has been given may be made by the dated file copy in the case file.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Expedited Hearings."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A motion for an expedited hearing may be filed by any party. The motion shall set forth the reasons for expediting the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Any response to the motion shall be filed within 10 days of the date the motion is filed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Motions.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A motion for expedited hearing shall be granted only if the moving party establishes good cause.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Office shall notify all parties of the decision on a motion for expedited hearing and, if granted, shall schedule the hearing as soon as practical.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Unless the parties agree to a longer period, or a shorter period is required by law, the ALJ shall render the proposed or final decision within 30 days after the close of the record.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Venue."> <text>Hearings shall be conducted at the site designated by the Office in accordance with applicable law.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Representation of Parties at Hearings."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In all Office proceedings:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An individual may represent himself or herself; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A person may be represented by an attorney authorized to practice law in Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>When authorized pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1607.1, Annotated Code of Maryland, or otherwise by law, a person may appear through or be represented by an individual who is not an attorney.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Power of Attorney.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An employee of a business entity who is representing that business entity in accordance with State Government Article, §9-1607.1, Annotated Code of Maryland, shall provide the Office with a power of attorney.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Office shall accept any properly executed power of attorney meeting the requirements of State Government Article, §9-1607.1, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Office may provide a form for a power of attorney.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A power of attorney required by this regulation may be:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Kept on file with the Office;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Provided to the ALJ:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>At the outset of a hearing in which the power of attorney is required; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>In the discretion of the ALJ, before the close of the record.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A party’s representative shall enter or withdraw the representative’s appearance with the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A party's representative of record shall be served with all notices, pleadings, and other correspondence.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Appointment of Interpreter; Request for Accommodations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon request of a party, witness, or representative who cannot hear, speak, or understand the spoken or written English language, the Office shall provide a qualified interpreter during the Office proceeding in which the party, witness, or representative is participating.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An interpreter shall take an oath or affirmation that the interpreter will accurately interpret the proceedings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a party, witness, or representative requests an accommodation, the Office shall provide a reasonable accommodation as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Service."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A copy of any pleading, motion, response, correspondence, or other paper filed in any proceeding shall be served promptly on all other parties to the proceeding by the party making the filing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless otherwise required by law, service on other parties may be made:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>By United States mail;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>By personal or courier delivery;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Electronically; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>As otherwise agreed to by the parties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Proof of Service.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All other materials filed with the Office, and all correspondence with the Office, shall contain or be accompanied by a certificate of service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The certificate of service shall be signed and shall contain the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Date of service;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Manner of service;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Name of each person served; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Address at which each person was served.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Whenever a party has a right, or is required, to do some act within a prescribed period after notice to or service upon the party, and delivery of notice or service upon the party is made by United States mail, 3 days shall be added to the prescribed period.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Powers and Duties of ALJs."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An ALJ shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Conduct a full, fair, and impartial hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Take action to avoid unnecessary delay in the disposition of the proceedings; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Maintain order.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An ALJ has the power to regulate the course of the hearing and the conduct of the parties and authorized representatives, including the power to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Administer oaths and affirmations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Issue subpoenas for witnesses and the production of evidence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Rule upon offers of proof and admit relevant and material evidence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Consider and rule upon motions in accordance with this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Examine witnesses and call witnesses as necessary to ensure a full and complete record;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Limit unduly repetitious testimony and reasonably limit the time for presentations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Grant a continuance or postponement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Modify or waive, reasonably and for good cause, any time periods established by this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Request parties to submit legal memoranda, proposed findings of fact, and proposed conclusions of law;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Make proposed or final decisions and take any other appropriate action authorized by law;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Require the parties to participate in remote proceedings unless a party establishes good cause for an in-person proceeding as provided by Regulation .20B of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Issue such orders as are necessary to procure procedural simplicity and administrative fairness and to eliminate unjustifiable expense and delay;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Conduct the hearing in a manner suited to ascertain the facts and safeguard the rights of the parties to the hearing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>Impose appropriate sanctions for failure to abide by this chapter or a lawful order of the ALJ.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Disqualification; Substitution of ALJs.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Conditions.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An ALJ shall withdraw from participation in an Office proceeding in which personal bias or other reasons render the ALJ unable to remain impartial, or in which an appearance of impropriety may reasonably be inferred from the facts.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>For purposes of this section, an ALJ shall presume personal bias under circumstances set forth in the Office’s Code of Judicial Conduct.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Motion for Disqualification.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A party shall move promptly for disqualification of an ALJ upon discovering facts that establish grounds for disqualification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The ALJ shall:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Rule promptly on the motion; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>If granted, immediately refer the matter for assignment or designation of a substituted ALJ.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Substitution of ALJs.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If an ALJ is unable to continue presiding over a pending Office proceeding, or to issue a proposed or final decision, to the extent that it is allowed by law the Chief ALJ shall assign or designate a substituted ALJ pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1604(a)(4) or 9-1607, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A substituted ALJ may use the existing record and conduct such further proceedings as are necessary and proper.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Motions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless otherwise provided by this chapter, this regulation pertains to all motions filed with the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In General.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An application to the Office for an order shall be by motion that, unless made during a hearing, shall be made in writing, and shall set forth the relief or order sought.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A written motion and response to a motion shall state their respective grounds and a party shall attach any relevant documents as exhibits.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An answer to a written motion shall be filed on the earlier of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>15 days after the date the motion was filed; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The date of the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Upon notice to all parties, the ALJ may schedule a prehearing conference or hearing to consider a written motion.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The ALJ may issue a written decision on a motion or state the decision on the record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>If a ruling on a motion is not stated on the record, the ruling shall be included in the ALJ’s proposed or final decision.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The filing or pendency of a motion does not alter or extend any time limit otherwise established by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Motion to Dismiss. Upon motion, the ALJ may issue a proposed or final decision dismissing an initial pleading that fails to state a claim for which relief may be granted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Motion for Summary Decision.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A party may file a motion for summary decision on all or part of an action on the ground that there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact and the party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A motion for summary decision shall be supported by one or more of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An affidavit;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Testimony given under oath;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A self-authenticating document; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A document authenticated by affidavit.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A response to a motion for summary decision:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Shall identify the material facts that are disputed; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>May be supported by an affidavit.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An affidavit supporting or opposing a motion for summary decision shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Conform to Regulation .02 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Set forth facts that would be admissible in evidence; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Show affirmatively that the affiant is competent to testify to the matters stated.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The ALJ may issue a proposed or final decision in favor of or against the moving party if the motion and response show that there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact and that the party in whose favor judgment is entered is entitled to judgment as a matter of law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Motion for Judgment.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A party may move for judgment on any or all of the issues in any action at the close of the evidence offered by an opposing party. The moving party shall state all reasons why the motion should be granted. No objection to the motion for judgment shall be necessary. A party does not waive the right to make the motion by introducing evidence during the presentation of any opposing party's case.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When a party moves for judgment at the close of the evidence offered by an opposing party, the ALJ may:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Proceed to determine the facts and to render judgment against an opposing party; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Decline to render judgment until the close of all evidence.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A party who moves for judgment at the close of the evidence offered by an opposing party may offer evidence if the motion is not granted, without having reserved the right to do so and to the same extent as if the motion had not been made.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Discovery."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>By written request filed not later than 30 days before the scheduled hearing, a party may require any other party to produce within 15 days, for inspection or copying, any file, memorandum, correspondence, document, object, or tangible item, including electronically stored information, that is:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Relevant to the subject matter of the case; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Not privileged.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless provided by law or by agreement of the parties, no other discovery procedure may be required.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Orders Regarding Discovery.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>On motion by the parties or on the ALJ’s own initiative, an ALJ may enter an order establishing reasonable limits on the scope of discovery, the method of delivery of discovery, and such other orders regarding discovery as the ALJ determines to be just.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Orders regarding discovery may include, but are not limited to, orders regarding expert testimony pursuant to Regulation .21D of this chapter and orders governing the electronic exchange of exhibits.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The parties may enter into binding agreements concerning the inadvertent production and handling of privileged materials.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A party that has filed a timely discovery request under this regulation but that has not received a reply may, after providing reasonable notice to the opposing party, file a motion seeking:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An order to compel a response;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An order imposing sanctions; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Both.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Copies.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Copies of requested documents and records shall be made at the expense of the party making the request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The charge for copies of requested documents or public records may be waived by the custodian of the documents in accordance with General Provisions Article, §4-206, Annotated Code of Maryland, or other applicable law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Subpoenas."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Issuance of Subpoenas. On request of a party, or at the direction of an ALJ, the Office may issue subpoenas requiring the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production at the hearing of one or more tangible items in the possession or under the control of a witness.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requests.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A request for a subpoena shall be made in writing, filed with the Office, and served on all other parties.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>To the extent practicable, subpoena requests shall be filed at least 15 days before the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A request for a subpoena shall specify the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Name and full address of the person to be subpoenaed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The email address and phone number of the person to be subpoenaed or an affirmative statement that this information is not available; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Name, full address, and telephone number of the party requesting the subpoena.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A party requesting a subpoena for the production of tangible items, books, papers, other documents, or electronic files shall describe those items with particularity.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>A party requesting a subpoena for the production of medical records shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Comply with Health-General Article, §4-306, Annotated Code of Maryland; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Serve a copy of the subpoena on the person whose medical records are sought.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A party requesting a subpoena for the production of financial records shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Comply with Financial Institutions Article, §1-304, Annotated Code of Maryland; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Serve a copy of the subpoena on the person whose financial records are sought.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Delivery of Subpoenas.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Subpoenas may be served:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>By personal delivery by an individual 18 years old or older who is not a party to the proceeding;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>By certified mail to the person at the address specified in the subpoena request; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If served by the Office, by United States mail, electronic delivery, personal delivery, or courier delivery.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Unless the subpoena request specifies otherwise, a subpoena served by the Office shall be mailed by First-Class United States mail.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The Office will not seek to enforce a subpoena pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1605(d)(2)(i), Annotated Code of Maryland, and §F of this regulation absent proof of service by certified mail or personal delivery.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Costs of certified mailing or personal delivery of subpoenas are the responsibility of the person requesting service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Proof of service of subpoenas by certified mail or personal delivery is the responsibility of the person requesting the subpoenas.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The party requesting the subpoena is responsible for notifying the person subpoenaed if the hearing is cancelled or postponed. Subpoenas shall remain in effect until the conclusion of the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Return of service shall be made as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>When service is by certified mail, by the filing of the original return receipt; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When service is by personal delivery, by the filing of an affidavit, signed by the person who made service, containing:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The name of the person served;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The date on which the person was served;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The particular place of service; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>A statement that the affiant is 18 years old or older and not a party to the proceeding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Objections to Subpoenas. A person may object to a subpoena by filing with the Office a motion to quash or for other relief.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Enforcement of Subpoenas. If a person fails to comply with a properly served subpoena, at the request of an ALJ the Office may apply to the appropriate circuit court for an order to show cause why the person should not be committed to jail for refusal to comply.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Intervention."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon motion filed not later than 15 days before the earlier of the prehearing conference or the hearing date, a person may be permitted to intervene in an action when the person:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Has an unconditional right to intervene as a matter of law; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Claims an interest relating to the subject matter of the hearing that is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Adversely affected; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Not adequately represented by existing parties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The motion shall state the grounds for the motion, accompanied by a statement setting forth the claim or defense for which intervention is sought.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Order of Intervention.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The ALJ shall consider whether the intervention will unduly delay or prejudice the adjudication of the rights of the original parties.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>As soon as practicable, the ALJ shall issue an order denying or allowing intervention.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In an order allowing intervention, the ALJ may place conditions upon the intervenor’s participation in the proceedings.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Appeal.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the ALJ is not the final decision maker, the denial of a motion to intervene may be appealed to the final decision maker in accordance with the agency’s regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When the ALJ is the final decision maker, a party or other affected person may seek judicial review of the denial of a motion to intervene in accordance with law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In the discretion of the ALJ, a request for further review of the denial of a motion to intervene may stay the proceedings.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Postponements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in §E of this regulation, a request for postponement shall be made in writing not fewer than 5 days before the scheduled hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A postponement request shall be served on all parties and may be filed by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>United States mail;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Personal or courier delivery;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Facsimile to (410) 229-4266; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Email to oah.postponements@maryland.gov.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A request for postponement shall be granted only if the party requesting the postponement establishes good cause for the postponement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Documentation of the reasons for the postponement shall be required from the party making the request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Emergency Request for Postponement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For purposes of this section, “emergency” means a sudden, unforeseen occurrence requiring immediate attention which arises within 5 days of the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In an emergency, a request for postponement may be made by telephone to the Office and promptly supported by documentation of the reason for the request.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>When practicable, all parties to a proceeding shall be contacted before a ruling on a postponement request is made.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Prehearing Conferences."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When appropriate, the ALJ may hold a prehearing conference to resolve matters preliminary to the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The ALJ may require the parties to submit information before the prehearing conference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A prehearing conference may be convened to address the following matters:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Issuance of subpoenas;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Factual and legal issues;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Stipulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Requests for official notice;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Identification and exchange of documentary evidence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Admissibility of evidence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Identification and qualification of witnesses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Motions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Discovery disputes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Order of presentation and burden of proof;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Scheduling;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Alternative dispute resolution; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Any other matters that will promote the orderly and prompt conduct of the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Conduct.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as otherwise indicated in this chapter, at the discretion of the ALJ, all or part of a prehearing conference may be recorded.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Prehearing conferences may be conducted by telephone or videoconference.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Prehearing Orders. Unless otherwise provided in this chapter or required by law:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>When a prehearing conference has been held, a prehearing order shall be issued by the ALJ.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The prehearing order shall set forth the actions taken or to be taken regarding any matter addressed at the prehearing conference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If a prehearing conference is not held, the ALJ may issue a prehearing order to regulate the conduct of the proceedings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The prehearing order shall be a part of the case record.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Alternative Dispute Resolution."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>For purposes of this regulation, “alternative dispute resolution” means the process of resolving issues through a settlement conference, neutral case evaluation, neutral fact finding, mediation, other non-adjudicative method, or combination of those methods.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If all parties agree, and unless otherwise prohibited by law, an alternative dispute resolution proceeding may be scheduled by the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An individual who presides at an alternative dispute resolution proceeding shall not preside over or take part in the prehearing conference, hearing on the merits, or other stage of the proceedings in that matter or any other matter arising from the same facts.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Confidentiality of Alternative Dispute Resolution Proceedings.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Alternative dispute resolution proceedings are confidential and are closed to the public.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Discussions in an alternative dispute resolution proceeding may not be made a part of the case record in any subsequent proceeding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Alternative dispute resolution proceedings, in whole or in part, may not be recorded electronically, captured through a screen shot, or preserved in any other manner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Parties participating in a remote alternative dispute resolution proceeding shall consent to an Agreement to Mediate Remotely, allow the mediator to sign the Agreement to Mediate Remotely on their behalf, and agree to participate from a private space that ensures the confidentiality of the alternative dispute resolution proceeding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>An ALJ or other individual who conducts an alternative dispute resolution proceeding may not be called to testify, participate in discovery, or otherwise provide information in a subsequent proceeding related to the alternative dispute resolution proceeding or any other matter arising from the same facts as that proceeding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".19" heading="Proceedings Open to the Public; Recording Devices."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless prohibited by law, all proceedings before the Office are open to the public.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless otherwise provided by law, documents, notices, and records in the possession of the Office as a result of a contested case proceeding may be inspected and copied as provided in General Provisions Article, §4-101 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland, and in COMAR 28.01.04.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The ALJ may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Remove individuals whose conduct impedes the orderly progress of the remote or in-person hearing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Restrict attendance because of physical or technical limitations of the remote or in-person hearing room.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Recording Devices. Unless expressly authorized by the presiding ALJ, the use of audio, video, or photographic recording devices by parties, their representatives, witnesses, or other persons in an Office proceeding is prohibited.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".20" heading="Conduct of Hearings; Remote Proceedings, Waivers."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>On a genuine issue in a contested case, each party is entitled to call witnesses, offer evidence, cross-examine any witness who testifies, and make opening and closing statements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A hearing shall be called to order by the ALJ. The ALJ shall explain briefly the purpose of the hearing and state the order of presentation of the evidence. The ALJ may allow the parties to present preliminary matters.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Witnesses shall be sworn or put under affirmation to tell the truth.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Remote Proceedings.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Subject to §B(2) of this regulation, and at the request of a party or on the ALJ’s initiative, all or part of a proceeding may be conducted by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Telephone or other audio means, if all parties have an opportunity to participate in the entire proceeding;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Video or other audio-visual means, if all parties have an opportunity to participate in the entire proceeding; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A combination of in-person, telephone or other audio means, and video or other audio-visual means, if all parties have an opportunity to fully participate in the entire proceeding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Exceptions.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If a party establishes good cause not to conduct an audio proceeding, the proceeding shall be held by audio-visual means or in person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Except for proceedings involving the Inmate Grievance Office, if a party establishes good cause not to conduct an audio-visual proceeding, the proceeding shall be held in person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Good cause for an in-person proceeding may include, but is not limited to, a party needing an interpreter or other accommodation that cannot be provided remotely, or a party being unable to access the internet or a device suitable for remote conferencing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Rights. All substantive and procedural rights apply to remote proceedings, subject only to the limitations of the physical and technological arrangements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Evidence. Except for proceedings involving the Inmate Grievance Office, if the Office grants a request or issues a notice for a remote proceeding, at least 10 days before the proceeding, or as ordered by the ALJ, a party shall disclose all documentary, photographic, and other evidence the party plans to offer at the proceeding by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Delivering one set of copies to the Office;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Serving one set of copies on the other party or parties; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Complying with an ALJ’s order requiring documentary evidence to be filed electronically.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>When a party electronically files a video or audio file, the party shall also submit the file to the Office on electronic storage media.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Waivers.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Waiver of Right to Appear.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Unless otherwise precluded by law, a party or a party’s representative may waive the party’s right to appear at an Office proceeding by:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Entering an oral waiver into the record; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Filing a written waiver with the Office and serving a copy on all other parties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>When a party has properly waived the right to appear, the failure of a party to appear personally or by representative shall not result in a finding of default. The proceeding shall be held and the matter decided in the party’s absence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>A waiver of the right to appear may be withdrawn by filing a withdrawal with the Office and serving a copy on all other parties not later than 5 days before the scheduled proceeding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Waiver of Right to a Hearing.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Unless otherwise precluded by law, a hearing before an ALJ is not necessary if all parties:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Agree to the admission of the evidence; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Waive their rights to a hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A waiver of the right to a hearing shall be in writing and filed with the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>When a hearing is properly waived, the ALJ shall decide the matter based on the pleadings and evidence in the file.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".21" heading="Evidence; Burden of Proof."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Evidence shall be admitted in accordance with State Government Article, §10-213, Annotated Code of Maryland, and other pertinent law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The ALJ may admit evidence that reasonable and prudent individuals commonly accept in the conduct of their affairs, and give probative effect to that evidence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Evidence may not be excluded solely on the basis that it is hearsay.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Expert Testimony. Expert testimony may be admitted, in the form of an opinion or otherwise, if the ALJ determines that the testimony will assist the ALJ to understand the evidence or to determine a fact in issue.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In making that determination, the ALJ shall determine whether:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The individual’s knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education is sufficient to qualify them as an expert;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Expert testimony on the particular subject is appropriate; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>There is a sufficient factual basis to support the testimony.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In the discretion of the ALJ:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Expert testimony may be offered through the video deposition of an expert witness taken with the consent of all parties; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The deposition may be used for any purpose even though the witness is available to testify.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Exclusion of Witnesses.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>On request by a party, or on an ALJ’s own initiative, an ALJ may exclude witnesses other than parties from the hearing room, except when testifying.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A party, representative, witness, or spectator may not disclose to a witness excluded under this section the nature, substance, or purpose of testimony, exhibits, or other evidence introduced during that witness's absence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A party that is not an individual may designate an employee or officer as its representative to remain in the hearing room, even though the employee or officer may be a witness.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An expert witness who is to render an opinion based on testimony given at the hearing may remain during the testimony.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>An ALJ may exclude the testimony of a witness who receives information in violation of §E of this regulation, or take other appropriate action.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Prefiled Direct Testimony</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At the request of a party or on the ALJ’s initiative, direct testimony may be received in writing in either question and answer or narrative format.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The testimony shall be under oath or affirmation and be filed and served on all other parties as ordered by the ALJ or, in the absence of an order, not later than 10 days before the hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Any party who submits prefiled testimony shall ensure that the witness is available, either remotely or in-person, for cross-examination at the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The filing of prefiled direct testimony does not preclude any party from presenting rebuttal testimony.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Official Notice.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At the request of a party or on the ALJ’s own motion, an ALJ may take official notice of a fact that is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Judicially noticeable; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>General, technical, or scientific and within the specialized knowledge of the agency.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Before taking official notice of a fact, the ALJ shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Notify each party before or during the hearing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Give each party an opportunity to contest the fact.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Stipulations.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The parties may, in accordance with law, agree to any substantive or procedural matter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A stipulation may be filed in writing or entered on the record at the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The ALJ may require additional development of stipulated matters.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Affidavits. An ALJ may admit an affidavit as evidence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Dangerous or Toxic Evidence. No dangerous or toxic item, as defined in COMAR 28.01.02.01, may be offered into evidence at a hearing unless:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>At least 10 days prior to the hearing, the party seeking to offer it files a motion for leave to offer the evidence; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The motion is granted in advance of the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="K."> <text>Proof. Unless otherwise provided by law:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The standard of proof is by a preponderance of the evidence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A party asserting:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A claim, right, or entitlement bears the burden of proof regarding the claim, right, or entitlement; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An affirmative defense bears the burden of proof regarding the defense; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The proponent of a motion bears the burden of proof regarding the motion.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".22" heading="The Record."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Office shall prepare an official case record of each hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The record shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All pleadings, motions, responses, correspondence, memoranda, including proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law, and requests filed by the parties;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All hearing notices;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>All documentary and other tangible evidence received or considered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A statement of each fact officially noticed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>All stipulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>All offers of proof and objections;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>All rulings, orders, and decisions, proposed or final;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Matters placed on the record in connection with ex parte communication;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>The recording of the hearing, and any prehearing proceeding, and any transcript of the recording prepared by a court reporting service; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Any other item required by law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>All exhibits marked for identification, whether or not offered in evidence and, if offered, whether or not admitted, shall be retained for purposes of judicial review.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".23" heading="Failure to Attend or Participate in a Hearing, Conference, or Other Proceeding; Default."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If, after receiving proper notice as provided in Regulation .05C of this chapter, a party fails to attend or participate, either personally or through a representative, in a prehearing conference, hearing, or other stage of a proceeding, the ALJ may proceed in that party’s absence or may, in accordance with the hearing authority delegated by the agency, issue a final or proposed default order against the defaulting party.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If after receiving proper notice as provided in Regulation .05C of this chapter, a party fails to attend or participate, either personally or through a representative, in a prehearing conference hearing, or other stage of proceeding, the ALJ may issue a default order against the party that bears the burden of proof.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Final Default Orders.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Unless otherwise provided by law, a party may move to vacate a final order of default within 30 days after the date of the order. The motion shall state the reasons for the failure to attend or participate in the proceeding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If an ALJ finds that there is good cause for a party’s failure to attend or participate in the proceeding, the ALJ shall vacate the order and set the case in for further proceedings as appropriate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If a motion is not filed under §C(1) of this regulation, or is filed and denied, the final default order is effective.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Proposed Default Orders. A proposed default order is reviewable in accordance with the delegating agency's regulations governing review of proposed decisions.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".24" heading="Dismissal for Lack of Prosecution."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless otherwise required by law, a case pending before the Office may not be placed on inactive status.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>At the expiration of 6 months from the last docket entry, and on the request of a party or on an ALJ’s own initiative, a case is subject to dismissal for lack of prosecution.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If dismissal is initiated, the Office shall send notice to all parties that a final or proposed dismissal for lack of prosecution will be entered after the expiration of 30 days from the date of the notice unless a motion is filed under §D of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>On motion filed within 30 days after the date of the notice under §C of this regulation, and for good cause shown, an ALJ may defer issuance of a final or proposed order of dismissal for the period and on the terms the ALJ considers proper.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Issuance of Order.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If a timely motion is not filed under §D of this regulation, or if a motion is filed and denied, the ALJ shall issue an order or proposed order of dismissal within 30 days after the time for filing the motion has expired.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If a motion is filed and good cause is shown for deferral of the dismissal, the ALJ shall issue an order deferring dismissal and specifying the period and the terms of the deferral.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".25" heading="Final or Proposed Decisions; Other Dispositions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>An ALJ shall issue a final decision or proposed decision in accordance with the pertinent law and any relevant delegation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless otherwise provided by law, an ALJ may dispose of a contested case by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Decision on the merits;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Stipulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Settlement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Consent order;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Default;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Withdrawal;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Summary disposition; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Dismissal.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Proposed Decisions. Except as otherwise provided by law or agency delegation, if an ALJ is not the final decision maker:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The ALJ shall submit a proposed decision to the final decision maker with a copy to each party; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An adversely affected party may file exceptions to the proposed decision with the final decision maker in accordance with State Government Article, §§10-216 and 10-220, Annotated Code of Maryland, and the final decision maker’s regulations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Final Decisions. Except as otherwise provided by law, when an ALJ is the final decision maker, the ALJ’s decision is the final agency decision for purposes of judicial review.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".26" heading="Cases Remanded to the Office."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A case remanded to the Office by a court or agency for further proceedings is considered filed with the Office when both the court’s or agency’s order and the record are received by the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless the remand order specifies otherwise, the Office shall promptly schedule further proceedings as necessary and issue a decision in accordance with State Government Article, §10-205(e), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".27" heading="Revision."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Final Decisions.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A final decision may be revised only by the ALJ who rendered the decision.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Except as set forth in §A(3) of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>On a motion filed by a party, the ALJ may exercise revisory power and control over a final decision in the event of fraud, mistake, or irregularity; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Clerical mistakes in final decisions, orders, or other parts of the record may be corrected by the ALJ on the ALJ’s own initiative, or on a motion filed by a party.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Judicial Review.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The ALJ may revise a final decision under §A(2) of this regulation:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>At any time before the decision is docketed for judicial review; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>After a decision is docketed for judicial review, only with leave of the circuit or appellate court before which the action is pending.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A request for revision does not automatically stay the action or toll the time for filing a request for judicial review.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Proposed Decisions. Proposed decisions may not be revised.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">State Government Article, §§9-1604, 9-1607, 10-205, 10-206, 10-210, 10-211, 10-212.1, 10-216, 10-217, and 10-220, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: March 2, 1992 (19:4 Md. R. 475)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01A amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405); May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 672); June 16, 1997 (24:12 Md. R. 866)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08B amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09 amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11B, C, D amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .13 amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16D amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17 amended effective January 1, 1996 (22:26 Md. R. 2033)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17B amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405); June 16, 1997 (24:12 Md. R. 866)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17C amended effective June 16, 1997 (24:12 Md. R. 866)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18A, F amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .20 amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .20B amended effective May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 672)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .22A, B amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .22C amended effective May 6, 1996 (23:9 Md. R. 672)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .23B amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .24A amended effective March 14, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 405)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—24 repealed and new Regulations .01—.28 adopted effective January 8, 2001 (27:26 Md. R. 2360)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.28 repealed and new Regulations .01—.27 adopted effective March 22, 2010 (37:6 Md. R. 480)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01A amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168); February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168); February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03E adopted effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03E amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04D amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05B, C amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06C, D amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09A, C amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10B amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11B amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .13 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .13C amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .14 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .14B, C amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .15C, D amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16 amended effective January 24, 2022 (49:2 Md. R. 79)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16A, D amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16A, B amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18D amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .19 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .19C amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .20 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168); February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .21 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .21F amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .23 amended effective February 8, 2021 (48:3 Md. R. R. 94)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .23A, B amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .24 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .25 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .26A amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .27 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="03" heading="Fees"> <chapter num="01" heading="Fee Assessment and Payment; Waivers"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>These regulations outline procedures for the payment of fees for certain hearings conducted by the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>These regulations do not apply to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>State government offices, agencies, or other units of State government;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>County or municipal governments;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Individual parties in hearings conducted under State Personnel and Pensions Article, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Individual parties in hearings regarding claims for assistance or reimbursement of assistance involving:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Developmental disabilities pursuant to Health-General Article, Title 7, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Mental health pursuant to Health-General Article, Title 10, Subtitle 7, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Assistance programs pursuant to Health-General Article, Title 15, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children pursuant to Health-General Article, §18-108, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Public assistance pursuant to Human Services Article, Title 5, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Community services pursuant to Human Services Article, Title 6, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>A request for order of eligibility or a petition for supplemental compensation pursuant to State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Agency action” means the action, proposed action, or inaction of any unit of government that gives rise to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A contested case hearing conducted by the Office under State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Any other Office proceeding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“ALJ” means an individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Appointed as an Administrative Law Judge pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1604(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Designated pursuant to State Government Article, §9-1607, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Favorable Decision.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Favorable decision” means, except as provided in §B(3)(b) of this regulation, an ALJ’s order or proposed order that:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Dismisses or denies an agency enforcement action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Takes no action under the Transportation Article, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Denies an insurer’s proposed cancellation, nonrenewal, or reduction of motor vehicle liability insurance coverage for the person that requested the hearing under the Insurance Article, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Upholds the proposed action of an insurer that requested a hearing under the Insurance Article, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Determines an arrearage was improperly certified under Family Law Article, §10-113 or 10-113.1, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vi)"> <text>Denies the proposed report of an arrearage under Family Law Article, §10-108.1, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vii)"> <text>Rules out an individual as a suspected child abuser or suspected child neglector under Family Law Article, Title 5, Subtitle 7, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Favorable decision” does not mean an order or proposed order of an ALJ that:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Modifies a motor vehicle suspension or revocation order; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Is based on another party’s failure to appear at an Office proceeding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Filed” means that a document is postmarked or received in accordance with COMAR 28.02.01.04D.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Filing fee” means a payment required to accompany a request for a hearing under this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Indigence” means that an individual’s family household income is less than 50 percent of the median family income for the State as reported in the Federal Register.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Office proceeding” means any type or stage of legal process scheduled by the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Person” means an individual, representative, corporation, or other entity, including any public or nonprofit corporation, or any agency or instrumentality of federal, State, or local government.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Subpoena processing fee” means a payment required to accompany a request for a subpoena under this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Working day” means a day on which the Office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Payment of Filing Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in Regulations .01B and .06 of this chapter, a request for a hearing shall be accompanied by payment of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A $150 filing fee for a hearing related to violation of the Maryland Vehicle Law; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A $50 filing fee for other types of hearings for which a filing fee is required.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Payment of the Filing Fee.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Payment of the filing fee may be by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Certified check;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Cashier's check;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Money order; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Personal check.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Office may not accept cash as payment of a filing fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Office shall schedule a hearing only upon receipt of a valid hearing request.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Payment of Subpoena Processing Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Except as provided in Regulations .01B and .06 of this chapter, requests for subpoenas shall be accompanied by payment of a $5 processing fee for each subpoena requested.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Payment of Subpoena Fee.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Payment of the subpoena fee may be by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Certified check;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Cashier's check;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Money order; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Personal check.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Office may not accept cash as payment of a subpoena fee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If a subpoena is not issued by the Office, the fee shall be returned.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Assessment of Penalties for Insufficient Checks."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A personal check that is returned for insufficient funds shall be turned over to the Central Collection Unit of the Department of Budget and Fiscal Planning for collection.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An additional fee of $25 shall be assessed on all checks returned for insufficient funds.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Waiver of Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Eligibility Criteria. The Office shall waive filing and subpoena processing fees for a person that, when the request is filed:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Is exempt from filing and subpoena processing fees under Regulation .01B of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Is represented by counsel retained through any legal services program which receives State funding or funding through the Maryland Legal Services Corporation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Applies for and is granted a waiver based on indigence under §B of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requests for Fee Waivers Based on Indigence.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Indigent persons may apply for a fee waiver by including with their request for a hearing or request for a subpoena:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Documentation that they are receiving assistance listed in Regulation .01B(4) of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>An appropriate affidavit of indigence with supporting documentation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An Affidavit of Indigence form, and instructions for completing it, are available:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>On the Office of Administrative Hearings website; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>By mail upon request.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If a request for a fee waiver is received without an affidavit demonstrating indigence:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Within 5 calendar days after receipt of the request, the Office shall mail the requesting person an Affidavit of Indigence form with instructions; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Within 14 calendar days after the form was mailed, the requesting person shall file the completed form and any supporting documentation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If it determines that the person is indigent, the Office shall grant the requested fee waiver or waivers.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Office may modify or waive any time periods established by this chapter for good cause.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Failure to Pay Required Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Unless a waiver is granted under Regulation .06 of this chapter, failure to pay a required filing fee may result in the dismissal of a person’s request for a hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless a waiver is granted under Regulation .06 of this chapter, failure to pay a required subpoena processing fee may result in a subpoena not being issued.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Refunds of Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Refunds.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §A(2) of this regulation, the Office shall refund a filing or subpoena processing fee if the person that paid the fee receives a favorable decision.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Office shall not refund:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Fees that were waived under Regulation .06 of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Processing fees for subpoenas that were issued.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Office shall process and mail a refund within 30 days after:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The person that paid the fee receives a favorable decision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The presiding ALJ certifies the favorable decision; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The person that paid the fee provides a correct mailing address and other information required by the Office.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501; State Government Article, §§9-1604, 10-206, and 10-215; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: October 26, 1992 (19:21 Md. R. 1897)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended as an emergency provision effective October 1, 1993 (20:20 Md. R. 1566); amended permanently effective April 1, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 406)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended as an emergency provision effective July 16, 2021 (48:17 Md. R. 666);</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">emergency provision expired effective December 13, 2021</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01B amended effective December 13, 2021 (48:25 Md. R. 1081)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended as an emergency provision effective October 1, 1993 (20:20 Md. R. 1566); amended permanently effective April 1, 1994 (21:5 Md. R. 406)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective January 12, 2001 (27:26 Md. R. 2361); January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03A amended effective December 10, 2015 (42:24 Md. R. 1506); January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04A amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A amended effective December 10, 2015 (42:24 Md. R. 1506)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06B amended effective August 24, 2020 (47:17 Md. R. 797)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .08 amended effective January 10, 2020 (46:26 Md. R. 1168)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="04" heading="Review of Decisions and Actions of Health Occupations Boards and Commissions"> <chapter num="01" heading="Referrals"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter sets out the procedures for the supervision of a health occupation board or commission that is composed, in whole or in part, of individuals participating in the occupation or profession regulated by the board or commission. The supervision outlined in these procedures is intended to prevent unreasonable anticompetitive actions by the boards or commissions and to determine whether the actions of the boards or commissions further a clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the regulated market.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Applicability. This chapter applies to any referrals made by a health occupations board or health occupations commission in accordance with Health Occupations Article, §1-203(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This chapter shall be construed to ensure the fair and expeditious review of each referral.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The review conducted pursuant to this chapter is not subject to the contested case hearing provisions of State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Administrative law judge” means an individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Appointed by the Chief Administrative Law Judge under State Government Article, §9-1604, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Designated by the Chief Administrative Law Judge under State Government Article, §9-1607, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Board” means a health occupations board established and defined by Health Occupations Article, §1-601, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Chief Judge” means the Chief Administrative Law Judge of the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Commission” means a health occupations commission established by Health-General Article, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Decision” means a document issued by an administrative law judge in accordance with Health Occupations Article, §1-203(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Expedited review” means that a decision will be issued as soon as practical upon receipt of a complete record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Filed” means when a document is received at the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Record” means all documents or other materials relied upon by a board or commission to reach a decision or initiate an action that is the subject of a referral and any materials produced pursuant to an order to supplement a record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Referral” means an action of a board or commission transmitted for review by the Office in accordance with Health Occupations Article, §1-203(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Referral of Decision or Action for Review."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A board or commission shall refer a decision or action to the Office as required by Health Occupations Article, §1-203, Annotated Code of Maryland, and this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Boards and commissions may not refer decisions or actions that consist of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Ministerial acts;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The internal operations of a board or commission;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Investigations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Disciplinary charges that have not led to proposed disciplinary action; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>As it relates to an individual regulated by a board or commission:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Consent orders; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Letters of surrender.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A board or commission may initiate a referral to the Office by transmitting a form substantially similar to that in Appendix A of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A board or commission may request expedited review by the Office by including the phrase “EXPEDITED REVIEW REQUESTED” on the transmittal form.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A request for expedited review by the Office shall be granted if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The board or commission establishes that immediate action is necessary to protect public health and safety;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The decision or action involves a cease and desist order; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The decision or action of the board or commission involves the summary suspension of a license.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The board or commission may withdraw the referral to the Office at any time before the decision is issued.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Computation of time is governed by COMAR 28.02.01.04C.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Record."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A board or commission shall transmit to the Office the materials necessary for a complete and substantive review of the decision or action that is the subject of the referral.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The record shall include a:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Summary of the rationale of the board or commission for the decision or action that is the subject of the referral;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Citation to the relevant statutes or other legal authority supporting the decision or action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Summary of the facts supporting the decision or action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Statement of the basis for the referral; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Description of the clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the regulated market relied upon by the board or commission in making the decision or taking the action.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The record shall include all materials reviewed by the board or commission related to the decision or action that is the subject of the referral and an index.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The board or commission shall indicate if any of the materials are confidential or privileged.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>The Office shall initiate review of the decision or action when the referral and record are filed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Within 30 days of the filing of the referral and record, an administrative law judge shall determine whether the record transmitted is sufficient for review of the decision or action.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Supplementing the Record.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Upon determining that the record is insufficient for review of the decision or action, the Administrative Law Judge shall issue an order, requiring the board or commission to supplement the record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>An order to supplement the record shall set forth a timeline for transmittal of additional materials and for filing an objection to the order.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Upon receipt of the order to supplement the record, the board or commission shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Submit the additional materials to the Office in accordance with the timeline set forth in the order:</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>File an objection to the order with the Office in accordance with the timeline set forth in the order; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Rescind the referral to the Office in writing on a document that includes the statement that the board or commission may not implement the decision or take the action that had been referred to the Office.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Qualifications and Training for Administrative Law Judges."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Office, with the assistance of the Antitrust Division of the Office of the Attorney General and other antitrust experts, shall provide training for all administrative law judges in accordance with Health Occupations Article, §1-203(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Office may not assign an administrative law judge to conduct the review required under this chapter until the administrative law judge has completed the training.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>An administrative law judge assigned to conduct the review required under this chapter shall possess knowledge of the provisions of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>15 U.S.C. §1, et seq.;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Health Occupations Article, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Health-General Article, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>This chapter; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The legal interpretations of these provisions by federal and State courts.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Management of Conflicts with Contested Case Hearings."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The review required under this chapter is independent of the Office’s contested case hearing process.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The administrative law judge assigned to conduct the review required under this chapter, may not be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The administrative law judge who participates in a contested case hearing involving the same facts as the decision or action that is the subject of the referral; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Appointed by, under the oversight of, or a member of a board or commission whose decision or action is the subject of review.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Office shall assign a separate case number and case code in its case management system to create an information barrier between a referral submitted under this chapter and a contested case hearing involving a decision or action of the board or commission.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The Office shall create an information barrier between the administrative law judge who reviews the referral submitted under this chapter and the administrative law judge who conducts a contested case hearing involving a decision or action of the board or commission that includes all records, decisions, discussions, and reviews.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Standards and Guidelines for Review."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A board or commission may not issue a final decision or take an action on a matter referred under this chapter until the Office has completed the review required by Health Occupations Article, §1-203, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Office shall conduct a de novo review of the record and issue a written decision on the decision or action that is the subject of the referral within 30 days of the filing of the record or the filing of any required supplemental materials as required by an order of the administrative law judge, whichever is later.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The written decision shall contain:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A summary of the materials considered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A summary of the facts relevant to the decision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A review of the substance of the decision or action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An analysis of whether the decision or action is unreasonably anticompetitive;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>An analysis of whether the decision or action furthers a clearly articulated State policy; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>An order approving, modifying or disapproving the decision or action.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Implementation of the final decision or action of the board or commission shall comply with the written decision of the Office.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Health Occupations Article, §1-203(c), Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 9, 2018 (45:7 Md. R. 347)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="05" heading="Compensation to Individual Erroneously Convicted, Sentenced, and Confined"> <chapter num="01" heading="Compensation to Individual Erroneously Convicted, Sentenced, and Confined"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter supplements the procedures for adjudicating a request for order of eligibility for compensation and a petition for supplemental compensation as required by law.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Applicability. This chapter applies to a request for an order of eligibility for compensation and a petition for supplemental compensation made in accordance with State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>This chapter shall be construed to ensure the fair and expeditious review of each request or petition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The adjudication of a request for order of eligibility for compensation or a petition for supplemental compensation is a contested case proceeding subject to State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland, and the Rules of Procedure found in COMAR 28.02.01.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“ALJ” means an individual:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Appointed by the Chief Administrative Law Judge under State Government Article, §9-1604, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Designated by the Chief Administrative Law Judge under State Government Article, §9-1607, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Application” means a written application for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses under State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(c)(3) or (d)(1)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Chief Judge” means the Chief Administrative Law Judge of the Office.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Claimant” means an individual who files a request for an order of eligibility under State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Filed” means that a document is postmarked or received in accordance with Regulation 28.02.01.04D.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Office” means the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Other benefits” means those services provided by a State service provider identified in State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Petition for supplemental compensation” means a request for an order of supplemental compensation under State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(c)(3), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Petitioner” means an individual who files a petition for supplemental compensation under State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(c)(3), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Request” means a request for order of eligibility for compensation under State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Filing and Service of a Request for Order of Eligibility."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A claimant requesting an order of eligibility shall file the request with the Office as required by State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(b)(3), Annotated Code of Maryland, COMAR 28.02.01.04D, and this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The request shall be captioned “In the Matter of the Wrongful Conviction of (Claimant(s)) v. Board of Public Works.”</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The request shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The name of the county where the alleged erroneous judgment of conviction for a felony was entered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The name of the current State’s Attorney in the county where the alleged erroneous judgment of conviction for a felony was entered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The conviction date; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The duration of the alleged erroneous confinement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A claimant may initiate a request for order of eligibility by filing a form substantially similar to that in Appendix A of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A request for order of eligibility shall be served on:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The current State’s Attorney in the county where the alleged erroneous judgment of conviction for the felony was entered; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Office of the Attorney General.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Filing and Service of a Petition for Order of Supplemental Compensation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A petitioner requesting an order of supplemental compensation shall file the petition with the Office as required by State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(c)(3), Annotated Code of Maryland, COMAR 28.02.01.04D, and this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The petition shall be captioned: “In the Matter of the Wrongful Conviction of (Claimant(s)) v. Board of Public Works.”</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The petition shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The date or dates on which the previous compensation was awarded;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The amount of the previous compensation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The conviction date; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The duration of the alleged erroneous confinement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A petitioner may initiate a request for order of supplemental compensation by filing a form substantially similar to that in Appendix B of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>A petition for order of supplemental compensation shall be served on:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The current State’s Attorney in the county where the alleged erroneous judgment of conviction for the felony was entered; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Office of the Attorney General.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Prehearing Conference."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon receipt of a request or a petition, the Office will schedule a prehearing conference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Office will send to all parties:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Notice of the prehearing conference;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Instructions for the prehearing conference; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An identification of benefits form substantially similar to that in Appendix C of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The prehearing conference may address any issue set out in COMAR 28.01.02.17C and shall address the following matters:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Scope of any evidentiary hearing, including the application of a clear and convincing burden of proof;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Stipulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Subpoenas duces tecum for records;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Participation of each party in each stage of the proceedings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Motions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>For a request, identification of the asserted factual basis for eligibility under State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(b)(1)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>For a petition, identification of the asserted factual basis for eligibility under State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(c)(3), Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Identification of any requested benefit and State service provider under State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Scheduling of any post-hearing process, as necessary, to determine requested benefits;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Applications for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Alternative dispute resolution;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Scheduling; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Any other matter that will promote the order and prompt resolution of the request or petition.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Conduct.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All parties shall participate in the prehearing conference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The ALJ shall record the prehearing conference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The ALJ shall issue a prehearing conference order setting forth the actions taken or to be taken regarding the matters addressed at the prehearing conference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The prehearing order shall be part of the case record.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Application for Reasonable Attorney’s Fees and Expenses."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Within 15 days of the conclusion of the evidentiary hearing, the claimant may file a written request for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses under State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(c)(3) or (d)(1)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The claimant shall submit supporting documentation, including time records, with the application.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The claimant shall serve the application and supporting documentation on all parties to the proceeding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>A party may file a response to the application within 15 days after the date the application was filed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>If the ALJ determines that the record is insufficient for review of the application, the ALJ may order the claimant or petitioner to supplement the record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>The ALJ shall include a ruling on the application in the final order pursuant to State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(d)(1)(ii), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Only one attorney will be compensated unless the participation of more than one attorney is justified for a specific purpose.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>The ALJ may consider the following factors when awarding attorney’s fees:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The time and labor required;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The novelty and difficulty of the questions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The skill required to perform the legal service properly;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Whether acceptance of the case precluded other employment by the attorney;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The customary fee for similar legal services;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Any time limitations imposed by the client or the circumstances;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>The amount of compensation involved and the results obtained;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>The experience, reputation, and ability of the attorneys;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>The undesirability of the case;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>The nature and length of the professional relationship with the client; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Awards in similar cases.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Guidelines regarding hourly rates are as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Lawyers admitted to the bar for less than or equal to 8 years: $125—$225.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Lawyers admitted to the bar for 9—14 years: $165—$300.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Lawyers admitted to the bar for 15 years or more: $200—$400.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Paralegals and law clerks: $75—$100.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Final Decisions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>If an ALJ finds that the claimant or petitioner has proven the elements required under State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501(d), Annotated Code of Maryland, the ALJ shall issue a decision finding the individual eligible for compensation and benefits.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The ALJ shall include in the decision:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The monetary award;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Benefits to be awarded; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If the ALJ determines that it is in the interests of the claimant or petitioner, a recommendation for an expedited payment schedule.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Office shall deliver the decision to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each party or party representative;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Board of Public Works; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Any State agency or State service providers ordered to provide benefits.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The ALJ’s decision is the final agency decision for the purpose of judicial review.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">State Finance and Procurement Article, §10-501, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.08 adopted as an emergency provision effective July 16, 2021 (48:17 Md. R. 666); emergency provision expired effective December 13, 2021</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.08 adopted effective December 13, 2021 (48:25 Md. R. 1081)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle>