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<chapter num="02" heading="Administrative Procedures" title_num="36" subtitle_num="01">
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Public Information Act Requests.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Scope. This regulation sets out procedures for filing and processing requests with the Agency for the inspection and copying of public records under the Public Information Act.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Policy. It is the policy of the Agency to facilitate access to the public records of the Agency, when access is allowed by law, by minimizing costs and time delays to applicants.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Definitions.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>In this regulation and in Regulation .02 of this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Terms Defined.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>“Act” means the Public Information Act, General Provisions Article, §§4-101—4-601, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>“Applicant” has the meaning stated in §4-101 of the Act.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>“Application” means a request for access under the Act for a public record of the Agency.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>“Board” has the meaning stated in §4-101 of the Act.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <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="(f)">
          <text>“Custodian” means:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>The official custodian, as defined in General Provisions Article, §4-101, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>The Director;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>The PIA Coordinator; or</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Any other authorized individual who has physical custody and control of a public record of the Agency.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(g)">
          <text>“Indigent” has the meaning stated in §4-206 of the Act.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(h)">
          <text>“Metadata” has the meaning stated in §4-205 of the Act.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(i)">
          <text>“PIA Coordinator” means the Agency employee who is responsible for accepting requests for public records.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(j)">
          <text>“Public Access Ombudsman” means the official appointed, under Title 4, Subtitle 1B of the Act, to resolve disputes under the Act.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(k)">
          <text>“Public Record” has the meaning stated in §4-101 of the Act.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(l)">
          <text>“Reasonable fee” has the meaning stated in §4-206 of the Act.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Who May Request Public Record. Any person may request to inspect or copy public records of the Agency.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Necessity for Written Application.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Except as otherwise provided in this regulation, an applicant that wishes to inspect a public record of the Agency shall submit a written application to the PIA Coordinator.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>An applicant need not submit a written application if:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The applicant seeks to inspect a public record designated by the official custodian as available to any applicant immediately on request; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The PIA Coordinator waives the requirement for a written application.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Application to Inspect a Public Record.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>An application shall be addressed to:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The PIA Coordinator; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>If the PIA Coordinator is not known, the Director.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>An application shall:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Reasonably identify, by brief description, the public record sought; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Provide an address or other means by which the custodian may respond to the applicant’s request.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>Response to Application.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>If the individual to whom the application is submitted is not an Agency custodian, within 10 work days after receiving the application the individual shall give the applicant:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Notice of that fact; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>If known, the name of the custodian and possible location of the public record.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>If the custodian decides to grant an application for inspection, the custodian shall produce the record for inspection:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Immediately; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Within a reasonable period, not to exceed 30 days from the date of the application if that period of time is needed to retrieve the public record and conduct any necessary review.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>If the custodian reasonably believes that it will take more than 10 work days to search for, retrieve, prepare, and produce the public record for inspection, the custodian shall indicate in writing or by electronic mail within 10 work days after receipt of the application:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The amount of time that the custodian anticipates it will take to produce the public record;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>An estimate of the range of fees that may be charged to comply with the application for public records; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>The reason why it will take more than 10 work days to produce the public record.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>If an applicant requests to inspect a public record and a custodian determines the record does not exist, the custodian shall notify the applicant of this determination:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Immediately, if the custodian determines this on initial review of the application; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>If the custodian determines this after a search for responsive records, promptly after the search is completed but not more than 30 days after receiving the application.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>If the custodian denies an application for inspection:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The custodian shall do so within 30 days after the request; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Immediately notify the applicant of the denial.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>If an application is denied, the custodian shall provide the applicant, at the time of the denial or within 10 work days, a written statement that gives:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The reason for the denial including, for records denied under §4-343 of the Act, a brief explanation of:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Why denial is necessary; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <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="(b)">
          <text>The legal authority for the denial;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <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="(d)">
          <text>Notice of the remedies available for review of the denial</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>A time limit imposed by §G(2) and (3) of this regulation may be extended:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>With the consent of the applicant, for an additional period of up to 30 days; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>For the period of time during which a dispute initiated by the applicant is pending before the Public Access Ombudsman.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>The Agency is not required to create a new record in response to an application.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="H.">
      <text>Notice to and Consideration of Views of Person Potentially Affected by Disclosure.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Unless prohibited by law, the custodian may provide notice of a request for inspection or copying of any public record of the Agency to any person who, in the judgment of the custodian, could be adversely affected by disclosure of that public record.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The custodian may consider the views of the potentially affected person before deciding whether to disclose the public record to the applicant.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="I.">
      <text>Electronic Records.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Except as provided in §I(3) and (4) 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="(a)">
          <text>The public record is in a searchable and analyzable electronic format;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The applicant requests a copy of the public record in a searchable and analyzable electronic format; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <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="(2)">
        <text>The custodian shall provide a portion of the public record in a searchable and analyzable electronic format if:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Requested by the applicant; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The custodian is able to do so by using the existing functions of the database or software program that contains the searchable an analyzable data.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The custodian is not required to:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <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="(b)">
          <text>Release an electronic record in a format that would jeopardize or compromise the security or integrity of the original record or any proprietary software in which the record is maintained.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>The custodian may remove metadata from an electronic document before providing the electronic record to an applicant by:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Using a software program or function; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Converting the electronic record into a different searchable and analyzable format.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="J.">
      <text>Review of Denial.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>If the custodian denies an application to inspect or copy a public record of the Agency, the applicant may, file an action for judicial enforcement under §4-362 of the Act without pursuing the remedies set forth in §J(2) and (3) of this regulation.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>If the custodian charges a fee of more than $350 under §L of this regulation, 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, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <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>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="K.">
      <text>Temporary Denial.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>If the act authorizes inspection of a public record but the custodian believes inspection would cause substantial injury to the public interest, the custodian may temporarily deny inspection.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Within 10 work days after the denial, the custodian shall petition a circuit court to authorize continued denial of inspection.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The petition shall be filed in:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The circuit court for the county where the public record is located; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The Circuit Court for Baltimore City.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>The custodian’s petition shall be served on the applicant as provided in the Maryland Rules.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="L.">
      <text>Fees.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The fee for a photocopy of a public record of the Agency is 25 cents per page.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The fee for a certified true copy of a public record is an additional fee of $1 per page.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>There is no charge if the total fee for copies is $10 or less.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Notwithstanding §L(1) of this regulation, if another law sets a fee for a copy, printout or photograph of a public record, that law applies.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>The custodian may charge for the cost of providing facilities for the reproduction of a public record if the custodian does not have the facilities.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>Before searching for, retrieving, reviewing, preparing, or copying a public record of the Agency, the custodian shall estimate the cost of reproduction and notify the applicant of the cost, and may:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Obtain the agreement of the applicant to pay the cost; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Demand prepayment of the cost from the applicant.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>Search and Preparation Fee.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Except as provided in §L(8) of this regulation, the Agency may charge a reasonable fee to:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Search for and retrieve requested public records;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Review requested public records for potential disclosure; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Prepare public records for inspection and copying.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The custodian shall determine the fee by multiplying the staff’s or attorney’s salary, prorated to an hourly basis, by the actual time attributable to the search for, retrieval of, review of, and preparation of public records for inspection and copying.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>The custodian may not charge a fee for the first 2 hours spent searching for, retrieving, reviewing and preparing a public record for inspection.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(9)">
        <text>Waiver or Reduction of Fee.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The custodian may waive or reduce any fee set under this regulation if the applicant requests a waiver, and:</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 submits an affidavit verifying the facts that support a claim of indigency.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>In determining whether a fee is in the public interest, the custodian shall consider, among other relevant factors, the ability of the applicant to pay the fee.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(10)">
        <text>If the applicant requests that copies of a public record be mailed or delivered to the applicant or a third party, the custodian may charge the applicant for the cost of postage or delivery.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(11)">
        <text>If the applicant fails to respond to the custodian within 30 days of the notification under §L(11) of this regulation, the custodian may deem the request withdrawn without further notification to the applicant.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(12)">
        <text>An applicant’s request to reopen a request deemed withdrawn under §L(11) of this regulation shall be processed as a new request.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="M.">
      <text>Time and Place of Inspection.  An applicant may inspect a public record of the Agency that the applicant is entitled to inspect during a work day of the Agency.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Correction of Public Records.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Scope. This regulation sets out procedures under which a person in interest may request the correction or amendment of a public record of the Agency pursuant to General Provisions Article, §4-502, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Definitions. The definitions in Regulation .01 of this chapter also apply to this regulation.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Who May Request. A person in interest may request that the Agency correct or amend any public record that the:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Agency keeps; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Person in interest is authorized to inspect.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Form and Contents of Request.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The request shall be:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>In writing; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Submitted to:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>The custodian of the record; or</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>If the custodian is unknown to the person in interest, to the Director.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The request shall:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Contain the name, address, and telephone number of the requestor;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Identify the public record sought to be corrected or amended;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Specify the precise correction or amendment sought;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>State the reason for the correction or amendment; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Include a statement that, to the best of the requestor’s belief, the public record is inaccurate or incomplete.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Return of Nonconforming Request.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Agency shall accept a request to correct or amend a public record when it is received if it reasonably complies with §§B and C of this regulation.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>If the request does not reasonably comply with §§B and C of this regulation, the Agency shall return the request to the requestor with:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>An explanation of the reason for the return; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>A statement that, on receipt of a request that reasonably complies with §§B and C of this regulation, the request will be accepted.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Response to Request. Within 30 days after the Agency receives a request for correction or amendment that reasonably complies with §§C and D of this regulation, the custodian shall:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Make the requested correction or amendment and inform the requestor in writing of the action; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Inform the requestor in writing that the Agency will not:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Make the requested correction or amendment, and the reason for the refusal; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Act on the request because:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>The requestor is not a person in interest;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>The requestor is not authorized to inspect the record;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>The record is correct as it stands; or</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Of any other reason authorized by law.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>Statement of Disagreement. If the Agency refuses to make a requested correction or amendment, a person in interest submit to with the Agency a concise, written statement that, in five pages or less, states the reasons for:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The requested correction or amendment; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The person's disagreement with the refusal of the Agency to make the correction or amendment.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="H.">
      <text>Statement of Disagreement Provided Third Parties. If the Agency discloses to a third party information about which a statement of disagreement has been submitted under §H of this regulation, the Agency shall provide a copy of the statement submitted to the Agency by the person in interest.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="I.">
      <text>Administrative Review.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A person may seek administrative review under this regulation if the Agency:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Has refused the person's request to correct or amend a public record under §E of this regulation;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Has rejected the person's statement of disagreement under §F of this regulation; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Has not provided a statement of disagreement to a third party under §G of this regulation.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A request for administrative review shall be submitted to the Director within 30 days after the requestor is advised of the Agency’s action.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The administrative review proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland, and the hearing regulations of the Agency.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Open Meetings.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Public Attendance.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The public may attend and observe an open session of a Commission meeting.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Except in instances when the Commission expressly invites public testimony, questions, comments, or other forms of public participation, or when public participation is otherwise authorized by law, no member of the public attending an open meeting may participate in the session.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Disruptive Conduct or Activity.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A person attending an open session of the Commission may not engage in any conduct that disrupts the session or interferes with the opportunity of members of the public to attend and observe the session.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The presiding officer may:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Order any person who engages in conduct that disrupts a session, to be removed from the session;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Request police assistance to restore order; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Recess the session while order is restored.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Recording, Photographing, and Broadcasting of Open Meetings.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A member of the public, including a representative of the news media, may record discussions of the Commission at an open session by means of a tape recorder or another recording device if the device:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Is operated from the individual's seat;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Does not create a noise that disturbs members of the Commission or other persons attending the session;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Does not otherwise interfere with another person’s attendance or observation of the session; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Is operated openly so that it is obvious to those in attendance that the session is being recorded.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A member of the public, including a representative of the news media, may photograph, videotape, broadcast, or televise the proceedings of the Commission at an open session by means of any type of camera if the camera:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Is operated from a fixed position that does not block the view of another individual;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Is operated without a flash or other form of excessively bright artificial light that disturbs members of the Commission or other persons attending the session;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Does not otherwise interfere with another person’s observation of or participation in the session;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Is operated openly so that it is obvious to those in attendance that the session is being photographed or videotaped; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Does not create a noise that disturbs members of the Commission or other persons attending the session.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Except with the unanimous consent of all members present at an open session of the Commission, a microphone may not be placed on the tables used by members of the Commission during an open session.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Except during a recess of an open session of the Commission a person may not:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Move about the meeting room when using a recording device, camera, or broadcasting or televising equipment; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Move a recording device, camera, or broadcasting or televising equipment from its initial location.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>The Commission may require any person who intends to record, photograph, videotape, broadcast, or televise an open session to register with the Commission at least 24 hours before the session begins.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>A representative from the news media who desires special arrangements for the use of a recording device, camera, or broadcasting or televising equipment in a manner not consistent with the provisions of this regulation may request these special arrangements in advance by contacting the Director.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Recordings Not Part of Record. A recording of an open session made by a member of the public, and any transcript derived from the recording, may not be considered a part of the record of any proceeding of the Commission.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Petition for Declaratory Ruling.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Submissions. A person may submit a petition with the Agency seeking the issuance of a declaratory ruling with respect to the applicability of a regulation, order, or statute enforceable by the Agency.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Petition Requirements.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Form. The petition shall:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Be in writing and specifically state the declaratory ruling sought;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Include a detailed statement of the relevant facts and the petitioner's argument in support of the position asserted in the petition; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Include a statement concerning the interest of the petitioner in the controversy and how a declaratory ruling would affect the petitioner's interest.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Submission and Consideration.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The petition shall be submitted to the Director.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The Director:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Shall consider the petition; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>May delegate the preparation of written findings of fact and proposed conclusions of law.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Disposition.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>If the Director decides not to issue a declaratory ruling, the Director shall notify the petitioner in writing, stating briefly the reasons for the refusal.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>If the Director decides to issue a declaratory ruling, the Director shall after appropriate consideration, issue the ruling in writing, stating the findings of fact and conclusions of law.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Unless reviewable by the Commission under §E of this regulation, the Director’s decision is final.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Effect of Declaratory Ruling. A final declaratory ruling is binding between the Agency and the petitioner on the statement of facts set forth in the final ruling.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Review By Commission.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Director’s decision shall be forwarded to the Commission for its review and approval before it may be considered final for a petition for declaratory ruling under:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>State Government Article, Title 9, Subtitles 1, 1A, 1B, 1D, and 1E, Annotated Code of Maryland, or regulations promulgated thereunder; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Criminal Law Article, Title 12, Subtitle 3, Annotated Code of Maryland, or regulations promulgated thereunder.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The Commission’s approval of the Director’s decision makes the Director’s decision final.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Judicial Review. A final declaratory ruling is subject to judicial review in the manner provided for by State Government Article, §10-222, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>Agency File.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Agency shall maintain a file of:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>All petitions submitted for declaratory ruling; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The Director's responses and rulings.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The Agency’s file is a public record as defined in General Provisions Article, §4-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Petition for Promulgation, Amendment, or Repeal of a Regulation.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Submissions. A person may submit a petition requesting the promulgation, amendment, or repeal of a regulation concerning which the Agency has rulemaking authority.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Form and Submission.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The petition shall:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Be submitted to the Director in writing;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Include the name, address, and telephone number of the petitioner;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Generally describe the regulation sought or identify the regulation which the petitioner seeks to amend or repeal; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Include a brief statement of reasons in support of the petition.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The petition may be in the form of a letter or any other written form as requested by the Director.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Consideration.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Upon receipt of the petition, the Director shall consider the petition.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>In considering the petition, the Director may use any of the following procedures to obtain additional information or views:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Publication of the petition or a summary of it in the Maryland Register;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Submission of the petition to other interested persons requesting their comments;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Public meetings or hearings on the petition; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Any other procedure designed to obtain the views of the public on the subject matter of the petition.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Disposition.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Within 60 days after submission of the petition, the Director shall either:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Deny the petition, stating the reason for denial; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Initiate rulemaking proceedings.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Within 60 days after submission of the petition, the Director shall forward the petition to the Commission with a recommendation to deny the petition or initiate rulemaking proceedings for a petition pertaining to regulations promulgated under:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>State Government Article, Title 9, Subtitles 1, 1A, 1B, 1D, and 1E, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Criminal Law Article, Title 12, Subtitle 3, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The Director shall send written notice of the final action taken on the petition to the petitioner and any other person requesting notification.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Agency File.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Agency shall maintain a file of all:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Petitions submitted; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Responses and rulings.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The Agency’s file is a public record as defined in General Provisions Article, §4-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Commission Hearings.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Scope.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>These regulations apply only to contested case hearings before the Commission.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>These regulations do not apply to conferences, meetings, or other informal proceedings where no formal ruling or decision is made.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Definitions.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>In this regulation, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Terms Defined.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>“Act” means the Administrative Procedure Act, State Government Article, §§10-201—10-226, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>“Administrative law judge” has the meaning stated in COMAR 28.02.01.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>“Contested case” has the meaning stated in State Government Article, §10-202, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>“Party” means a person, including the Agency, named or admitted to participate in a hearing.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>“Presiding Officer” means:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>The Chairman of the Commission or a member designated by the Chairman; or</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>In the absence of the Chairman or the member designated by the Chairman, any other Commission member in attendance.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>“Quorum” means a majority of the full authorized membership of the Commission.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Conduct of Hearing.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Commission Action.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>A hearing conducted by the Commission shall be held before not less than a quorum of the Commission.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Commission action shall be by the concurrence of at least four members.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Duties of Presiding Officer.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The Presiding Officer shall have complete charge of the hearing.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>In addition to other powers and authority granted by law, the presiding officer may:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Administer oaths and affirmations;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Rule upon offers of proof by the parties;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Rule upon the admission and inadmissibility of evidence;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Consider and rule upon all procedural and other motions appropriate to the procedures;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(v)">
            <text>Examine witnesses;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(vi)">
            <text>Maintain order; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(vii)">
            <text>Limit unnecessarily repetitious or irrelevant evidence or argument.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Legal Advisor.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The presiding officer may ask the Office of the Attorney General to act as legal advisor to the Commission.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The legal advisor may assist the Commission with:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Questions of evidence and law;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Preparation of the Commission’s written decision; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Any other appropriate advice function.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Presenter of Evidence.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The presiding officer may ask the Office of the Attorney General to act as the presenter of evidence before the Commission.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>An Agency staff member may act as the presenter of evidence before the Commission.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The presenter of evidence shall have all the rights as a representative for any other party with regard to:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Submission of evidence;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Examination and cross-examination of witnesses;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Preparation of summation and argument; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Filing of objections, exceptions, and motions.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Evidence.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Only evidence that possesses probative value commonly accepted by reasonable and prudent persons in the conduct of their affairs shall be admitted into the record and considered by the Commission in reaching its decision.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The presiding officer may exclude incompetent, irrelevant, immaterial, and unduly repetitious evidence.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The presiding officer shall give effect to the rules of privilege recognized by law.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>In making its determination, the Commission may consider only evidence which has been:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Introduced in the course of the hearing; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Made part of the record in the case.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Documentary evidence may be received in the form of copies or excerpts, or incorporated by reference.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>The Commission may use its experience, technical competence, and specialized knowledge in its evaluation of the evidence.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>The Commission may take notice of:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Judicially cognizable facts; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>General, technical, or scientific facts within its specialized knowledge.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>The presiding officer shall inform the parties of notices taken by the Commission.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(9)">
        <text>A Party may contest facts so noticed.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>Rights of Parties.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>At a hearing, the parties may:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Be represented by counsel;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Present witnesses;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Cross-examine witnesses presented by the other party or presiding officer;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Present documentary and other evidence which is relevant;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Submit rebuttal evidence; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>Present argument.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>If a party is represented by counsel, submissions of evidence, examination and cross-examination of witnesses, and argument shall be performed solely by counsel.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The presiding officer, on the presiding officer's own motion or upon request by a member of the Commission, may call additional witnesses.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>A member of the Commission may examine a witness.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="H.">
      <text>Record and Transcript of Hearing.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Record.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The Commission shall prepare an official record of the hearing, which shall include all pleadings, testimony, exhibits, and other memoranda or other documents submitted in the proceedings.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>A record of the hearing shall be made at the expense of the Commission.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>This record need not be transcribed unless requested by a party or the Commission.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Transcript Expense.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The cost to obtain a written transcript of any part of a proceeding shall be paid by the party requesting the transcript.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The party requesting the transcript is responsible for all costs of transcription.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>If a party is excepting to, appealing from, or seeking judicial review of the Commission’s proposed or final decision, that party shall request a transcript of the recording, unless a transcript already has been prepared.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="I.">
      <text>Decision and Order.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Each decision and order rendered by the Commission shall be in writing and accompanied by findings of fact and conclusions of law.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A copy of the decision and order and accompanying findings and conclusions shall be transmitted promptly to each party or each party's attorney of record.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="J.">
      <text>Consolidation.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>When proceedings involving a common question of law or fact are pending before the Commission, the Commission may consolidate the proceedings pursuant to a motion or on the Commission’s own initiative.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>If the consolidated proceedings involve different parties or burdens of going forward or persuasion, the Commission may specify special procedures to assure an expeditious and just proceeding.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="K.">
      <text>Default.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>If, after receiving notice, a party fails to attend or participate in a prehearing conference, hearing, or any other stage of a proceeding, the Commission may:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Proceed in that party's absence;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Continue the matter to a later time; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Issue a default order against that party.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Within 30 days after issuance of a default order, the party in default may submit a written motion requesting that the order be vacated or modified.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The Commission may vacate or modify a default order if the Commission finds that:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>There is a substantial and sufficient basis for an actual controversy on the merits; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>It is equitable to excuse the default.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>If a motion to vacate or modify the default order is not timely submitted, or if a motion is submitted and denied, the default order shall be final and effective when the Chairman signs the order.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="L.">
      <text>Dismissal for Lack of Prosecution.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>If six months pass since a party that initiated an action before the Commission has made a submission or otherwise contacted the Commission to pursue the party’s action, the Commission may dismiss the action.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The Commission shall:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Document its dismissal of the action in writing; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Transmit the written dismissal to all parties by electronic or regular mail.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>If a party disagrees with the dismissal, within 30 days of the date of the dismissal notice, the party shall submit, in writing, its factual and legal basis for disagreement.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>The Commission may reopen the matter if good cause exists to do so.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>The Commission’s dismissal of an action is final if:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>No party timely submits written disagreement with the dismissal; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The Commission declines to reopen the matter.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="M.">
      <text>Time Modifications and Waivers.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Presiding Officer may modify or waive a time limit established by this title.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>An administrative law judge may not modify or waive a time limit established by this title, except with the consent of all parties or the consent of the Commission.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="N.">
      <text>Service.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A party shall promptly serve a copy of any notice, order, pleading, motion, response, correspondence, decision, paper, or other document submitted in a proceeding on all other parties to the proceeding or their authorized representatives.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Unless otherwise required by law, a party shall make service by personal delivery or by regular mail.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>A party may make service on a party to whom a license, registration, or certification has been issued by the Agency or the Commission by delivering a copy to the last address provided the Agency by that party.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Every paper or document submitted in a proceeding, other than one submitted by or on behalf of the Commission, shall contain or be accompanied by a certificate of service that:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Is signed by or on behalf of the party submitting the paper or document; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Specifies the:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Date of service;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Manner of service;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Name of each person served; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Address at which each person was served.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="O.">
      <text>Delegation of Hearing Authority.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Commission may, on a case-by-case basis, delegate to the Office of Administrative Hearings the authority to:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Conduct a contested case hearing; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Issue:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Proposed or final findings of fact;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Proposed or final conclusions of law;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Proposed or final findings of fact and conclusions of law; or</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>A proposed or final order.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Hearings delegated to the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>This section applies to a contested case where the Commission has delegated authority to the Office of Administrative Hearings to conduct a contested case hearing under §O(1) of this regulation.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The administrative law judge who hears a case shall submit to the Commission a decision that contains one of the following, as delegated by the Commission to the Office of Administrative Hearings:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Proposed or final findings of fact;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Proposed or final conclusions of law;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Proposed or final findings of fact and conclusions of law; or</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>A proposed or final order.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>When making a decision, the administrative law judge is bound by any regulation, bulletin, final order, or settled and preexisting policy of the Commission to the same extent that the Commission is or would have been bound if the Commission were hearing the case.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>The Office of Administrative Hearings shall send the administrative law judge’s decision directly to the parties and the Commission.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Unless the Commission expressly delegates hearing authority to the Office of Administrative Hearings, the Commission shall hear all contested case matters that come before the Commission.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>In a hearing delegated to be conducted by an administrative law judge of the Office of Administrative Hearings, these regulations shall be construed, whenever possible, in harmony with COMAR 28.02.01.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>In the event of conflict between these regulations and COMAR 28.02.01, these regulations control.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>The Commission may revoke all or part of a delegation previously made to the Office of Administrative Hearings if the Commission believes that the case might:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Involve novel or unanticipated factual or legal issues;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Have significant social or fiscal consequences;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Involve policy issues of general applicability; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Be likely to have precedential value.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>The Commission may revoke a delegation to the Office of Administrative Hearings at any time before the earlier of:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The issuance of a ruling on a substantive issue; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The taking of oral testimony from the first witness.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>The Commission shall provide written notice of a revocation to all parties and the Office of Administrative Hearings by sending to the parties a notice that:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Contains a brief statement of the reason for the revocation;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Specifies whether all or part of the delegation to hear the case is revoked; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>If less than all of the delegation is revoked, specifies the parts of the contested case for which the delegation has been revoked.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(9)">
        <text>The Commission's decision in the case shall reflect the fact that delegation to the Office of Administrative Hearings was revoked.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(10)">
        <text>The Commission’s revocation notice shall be included in the record.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <annotations>
    <annotation type="Authority">General Provisions Article, §§3-101—3-501 and 4-101—4-601;State Government Article, §§9-108—9-111, 9-1A-04, 9-1E-04, 10-201, 10-226, and 10-301—10-305; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 29, 2013 (40:8 Md. R. 725)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective March 30, 2015 (42:6 Md. R. 515); March 14, 2016 (43:5 Md. R. 387)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01G, L amended effective January 14, 2019 (46:1 Md. R. 13)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02 amended effective January 14, 2019 (46:1 Md. R. 13)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective January 14, 2019 (46:1 Md. R. 13)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective January 14, 2019 (46:1 Md. R. 13)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04E amended as an emergency provision effective August 5, 2021 (48:18 Md. R. 690); amended permanently effective January 13, 2022 (49:1 Md. R. 16)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective January 14, 2019 (46:1 Md. R. 13)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05D amended as an emergency provision effective August 5, 2021 (48:18 Md. R. 690); amended permanently effective January 13, 2022 (49:1 Md. R. 16)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective January 14, 2019 (46:1 Md. R. 13)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06O amended as an emergency provision effective August 5, 2021 (48:18 Md. R. 690); amended permanently effective January 13, 2022 (49:1 Md. R. 16)</annotation>
  </annotations>
</chapter>