SECTION 357.524. Hearing Officer's Powers and Duties

The hearing officer:

(1) administers oaths or affirmations;

(2) ensures that all relevant issues are considered;

(3) requests, receives, and includes in the record all evidence determined necessary to resolve the issues;

(4) ensures an orderly hearing by regulating the conduct and course of the hearing;

(5) orders an independent medical assessment or professional evaluation, if relevant and useful, from a source mutually satisfactory to the household and the Texas Department of Human Services (DHS);

(6) makes the final administrative decision concerning the hearing in the name of DHS; and

(7) requires the attendance of an agency representative, if necessary and appropriate.

Source Note: The provisions of this §357.524 adopted to be effective February 1, 1994, 18 TexReg 9857; transferred effective September 1, 2004, as published in the Texas Register September 17, 2004, 29 TexReg 9013