CT HB06908

Establishes an independent Office of Administrative Appeals within the Department of Social Services, separate from legal counsel and other departmental divisions, to conduct all administrative appeals from decisions by the Commissioner of Social Services.

Requires fair hearing applications to be filed with the Office of Administrative Appeals (not the commissioner) within 60 days of a decision, with hearings held within 30 days of receipt, or within 4 business days for emergency housing denials.

Grants the Office of Administrative Appeals and hearing officers authority to administer oaths, subpoena witnesses, and compel production of records, with enforcement through Superior Court commitment to community correctional center for up to 60 days for non-compliance.

Requires stenographic or mechanical records of all hearings; transcripts must be provided without charge if appealed or requested by the aggrieved person.

Mandates final decisions within 60 days of hearing (3 business days for emergency housing cases) and allows aggrieved persons to appeal to Superior Court, with the Office of Administrative Appeals able to extend appeal deadlines for good cause.