(a) The ALJ should render a written decision not later than 90 days
after the closing of the record.
(b) The decision of the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) constitutes
final agency action unless, within 20 days of the decision, a party
dissatisfied with the ALJ's decision has filed a petition for review
with the Administrative Review Board (ARB) (established under
Secretary's Order No. 2-96, specifically identifying the procedure,
fact, law or policy to which exception is taken. Any exception not
specifically urged is deemed to have been waived. A copy of the
petition for review must be sent to the opposing party at that time.
Thereafter, the decision of the ALJ constitutes final agency action
unless the ARB, within 30 days of the filing of the petition for
review, notifies the parties that the case has been accepted for
review. Any case accepted by the ARB must be decided within 120 days of
acceptance. If not so decided, the decision of the ALJ constitutes
final agency action.
