NC S482

Authorizes administrative law judges to make final decisions in contested cases under Article 3 of the Administrative Procedure Act, eliminating the requirement that judges submit recommended decisions to agencies for final approval.

Removes provisions requiring agencies to review and approve administrative law judge decisions within 60 days, and eliminates automatic adoption of judge decisions if agencies fail to act within time limits.

Allows administrative law judges to grant judgment on the pleadings or summary judgment without including findings of fact or conclusions of law when appropriate under court rules.

Simplifies judicial review by having courts review administrative law judge decisions directly for substantial evidence support, rather than reviewing de novo when agencies do not adopt judge recommendations.

Becomes effective January 1, 2012, and applies only to contested cases commenced on or after that date.