After the hearing is completed, the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) will either send a proposed decision to the Director of the California Department of Social Services or Health Services or will issue a final decision on behalf of the Director. If a proposed decision is sent to the Director, the facts presented during the hearing will be studied and the Director will adopt the proposed decision, order a further hearing or issue his/her decision. If the Director issues his/her own decision, that decision is binding, but you will also receive a copy of the ALJ’s original proposed decision. Immediately upon receipt of the decision, the county must comply with the decision even if a rehearing is requested. If the decision is a denial, any aid pending which you had been receiving will stop. In addition, the county can demand repayment of excess cash air or food stamps, which were paid as aid pending. If you disagree with the decision, you may request a rehearing by following the instructions on the first page of the decision you receive.
(FAQ103)
