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If a client submits a Fair Hearing request for any of the above-mentioned reasons their request will be automatically denied.

ii. The client must submit a request for an appeal within thirty (30) calendar days of the denial or adverse action.

The request must be submitted on https://virtualroma.mdhs.ms.gov/ and include all of the following:

Name of Community Service Agency Full Name and Address Date of Denial or Adverse Action Notice Stated Reason(s) for Denial or Action Reason(s) for Appeal Request

The client’s request will be submitted to the Executive Director and Board Chair. The Executive Director and Board Chair will have 15 calendar days to contact the client to schedule an appeal. After scheduling and hearing the grievance, the Executive Director and Board Chair will then have 15 calendar days to make a final determination in regard to the appeal.

2) Fair Hearing (MDHS Level)

i. Basis for a Fair Hearing

• If the client was denied at the agency-level appeal process and has met all the criteria for a complete application, but still feels they are eligible for services for the following reasons:

o Disagreement with the appeal denial itself o Incorrect information or assessment o Procedural error o Discrimination o Failure to make a timely decision o Changes in circumstances o Other _________________

Clients must first exhaust the agency-level appeal process before requesting a Fair Hearing with the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS).

ii. Requesting a Fair Hearing