# Fair Hearings Rule Changes Summary People seeking to appeal Department of Social Services decisions can now request hearings orally or in writing for medical assistance cases, whereas previously written requests were required for most programs. The department updated program terminology (replacing "food stamp program" with "supplemental nutrition assistance program"), added new appeal deadlines for additional program types including central registry placements, and clarified procedures for suspected intentional program violation hearings—including a requirement that the department provide individuals copies of evidence within five business days when requested. Medical assistance appeals can now be withdrawn verbally with the department recording the request, matching the process for other programs.
AI-generated from the adopted rule text — verify against the official documents.
The effect of the rules will be to allow oral hearing requests and withdrawals related to the medical assistance program, update the evidence requirements for suspected program violation (SPV) hearings, update program terminology, update form and style, and remove outdated references.
No specific cites listed — see the package documents.