Sec.12-2b-16. Final decision in contested cases

(a) The decision in a contested case, if adverse to the company or the employee, shall not be made until a proposed decision is served upon the company or the employee, and an opportunity is afforded to such company or employee to file exceptions and present briefs and request oral argument before the Secretary. The proposed decision shall contain a statement of the reasons therefore and of each issue of fact or law necessary to the proposed decision, prepared by the Secretary. The company or the employee by written stipulation may waive compliance with this section.

(b) The final decision or order in a contested case shall be rendered by the Secretary after due consideration of the entire record, including any briefs or oral arguments presented to him. A final decision or order adverse to a company or an employee in a contested case shall be made in writing and shall be served upon the company or the employee by certified mail.

(c) The Secretary shall proceed with reasonable dispatch to conclude any matter pending before him and shall render a final decision in all contested cases within ninety days following the close of evidence and filing of briefs in such proceedings.

(Effective October 4, 1985; Amended March 30, 1999)