Page 43

2026 - 2027 I PY27 NH Fuel Assistance Program (FAP) Procedures Manual 43 If the applicant is not satisfied with the determination of FAP benefits after discussing the issue with the CAA FAP Director and the NH DOE FAP Administrator, the applicant may request a Fair Administrative Hearing. An applicant must request a Fair Administrative Hearing with NH DOE within 30 business days of the exchange with the NH DOE FAP Administrator.

The NH DOE Fair Administrative Hearings will meet the following standards:

• All hearings shall be held in a location reasonably convenient to the applicant. • The hearing officer shall be a NH DOE employee who was not involved in rendering the challenged action or decision. • The NH DOE hearing officer shall review the applicant CAA file prior to the hearing. The hearing officer shall review the applicant file prior to the hearing, including: a) FAP application, including supporting household and income documentation b) Written notification to the applicant of denial or any other contested decision c) Notes and/or documentation containing information relied upon by FAP staff in making the decision to deny benefits or to take the contested action • The hearing will be recorded by NH DOE and the decision will be based upon the record and any relevant evidence and information introduced during the hearing.

The applicant is entitled to:

• Review CAA documents prior to the hearing. NH DOE will ensure that the applicant is provided with this option in a timely manner. • A copy of the current FAP Policy and Procedures Manual. The manual is available online at the NH DOE website, but the NH DOE will provide a printed copy of the manual if it is requested by the applicant. • Request an interpreter to be provided and funded by NH DOE. • Bring a representative to accompany him/her to the hearing; however, NH DOE is not required to provide or to pay for such a representative. • Present oral testimony, a written statement, and/or other relevant evidence. • Present witnesses and cross-examine witnesses.

The NH DOE will adhere to the following requirements:

• The applicant has 30 days from the applicant’s meeting with the NH DOE FAP Administrator to request a hearing in writing. • The NH DOE will conduct a hearing within 20 business days of receipt of the written request.