Section 1075.1030  Hearing Officer's Findings, Opinions and Recommendations

a)         The hearing officer's findings, opinions and recommendations shall be in writing and shall include findings of fact and conclusions of law, or opinions separately stated when possible. Findings of fact shall be based exclusively on the evidence presented at the hearing or known to all parties, including matters officially noticed. Findings of fact, if set forth in statutory language, shall be with a statement of the underlying supporting facts. If a party submits proposed findings of fact that may control the decision or order, the decision or order shall include a ruling upon each proposed finding. Each conclusion of law shall be supported by authority or reasoned opinion. A decision or order shall not be made except upon consideration of the record as a whole or a portion of the record as may be supported by competent material and substantial evidence.

b)         The hearing officer shall then submit findings, opinions and recommendations to the Director.

(Source:  Amended at 30 Ill. Reg. 19068, effective December 1, 2006)