Regulations/rules of practice for hearings (please include CFR citations):
7 CFR 1484.76, 1485.20(d), 1486.505
Is discovery permitted by either party at the hearing-level stage?:
No
Are ex parte contacts prohibited?:
No
Are parties provided notice of hearing?:
Yes (All Types of Cases)
What types of hearings are permitted at the hearing-level stage?:
Written (Document-Only) Hearing
In-Person
How is the type of hearing selected:
By Private Party
How many hearing officers preside at each hearing?:
One
Can third-parties submit amicus briefs and/or evidence?:
No
Are hearings recorded and/or transcribed?:
Only at Party Request
Who typically drafts the decision at the hearing-level stage?:
Adjudication Officer
Do agency regulations or guidance provide time limits for issuance of final decisions?:
Yes (All Types of Cases)
If "Yes," please specify these time limit(s):
Applicable regulations provide that the Administrator (or designee) "will endeavor to make a [final written] determination within 60 days after submission of the appeal, hearing, or receipt of transcript, whichever is later." (7 CFR 1484.76(c), 1485.20(d)(6), 1485.505(c))
Is judicial review available after issuance of a final decision?:
Yes (All Types of Cases)
Does the agency permit web-based electronic filing of hearing-related briefs or other documents?:
No
Are final decisions published and/or posted on the agency website?:
No
Do agency regulations/rules of practice specify the contents of the administrative record at the hearing-level stage?:
No
Do agency regulations/rules of practice provide for closure of the record at the hearing-level stage (subject to applicable exce:
No
Total # of Hearing Officers:
1
Is ADR available at one or more points during the hearing process?:
No
Verified by Agency:
Not verified