HOUSEHOLD'S RIGHTS

1) The household shall be given an opportunity to examine all evidence at a reasonable time before the hearing, as well as at the hearing. The contents of the case file shall be made available.

EXCEPTION: Do not disclose the names of persons who have informed on the household and do not disclose the nature or status of any pending criminal prosecutions. Information that is protected from release cannot be presented at the hearing.

2) Present the case itself or have it presented by a legal counsel or other person.

3) Bring witnesses.

4) Advance arguments without undue interference.

5) Submit evidence to establish all pertinent facts and circumstances in the case.

6) Subpoena witnesses.

THE HEARING DECISION - The decisions of the Hearings Unit shall comply with the Federal law and regulations, and shall be based on the hearing record. The verbatim transcript or recording of testimony and exhibits, or an official report containing the substance of what transpired at the hearing, together with all papers and requests filed in the official proceeding, shall be retained for three years. This record shall also be available, upon request, to the household or its representative at any reasonable time for copying and inspection at no cost.

A decision by the Hearings Unit shall be binding on the Department and shall summarize the facts of the case, specify the reasons for the decision, and identify the pertinent Federal regulations. The decision shall become part of the record.