Section 2605.410  Final Decision

a)         The Final Decision in a contested case shall be in writing and shall become a part of the Administrative Record.  A Final Decision shall include Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, separately stated.  Findings of Fact, if set forth in statutory language, shall be accompanied by a concise and explicit statement of the underlying facts supporting the findings.  If, in accordance with this Part, a party submitted a post-hearing motion for reconsideration, the Final Decision shall include a ruling upon the motion for reconsideration.  Parties or their agents appointed to receive service of process shall be notified either personally or by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, of any decision.  Upon request, a copy of the decision shall be delivered or mailed forthwith to each party and to his or her attorney of record.

b)         All Department orders shall specify whether they are final and subject to the Administrative Review Law. [5 ILCS 100/10-50]

c)         The Final Decision shall be issued in writing as soon as practicable after the Hearing is concluded, unless otherwise provided for by Statute and/or Program Rule.

d)         A Final Decision in a matter initiated by a Recipient is a "final recovery order" for the purposes of Section 8 of the Grant Funds Recovery Act.

e)         To the extent permitted by Statute or agreement between the parties, the Final Decision may require any party to the proceeding to pay part or all of the costs of the Hearing, including but not limited to: witness fees, court reporter fees, Hearing Officer fees, and the cost of the transcript.

(Source:  Amended at 43 Ill. Reg. 4056, effective March 19, 2019)