I have always considered rules a double- edged sword. If not well thought out, they can easily become ends unto themselves, straightjacketing everyone into rigid procedures. On the other hand, rules offer guidance to those unfamiliar with the process and provide predictablity. With 18 months of experience, the OAH is now confidently drafting rules to reflect and encouage the practices which have been found to work well. We are making every effort to limit the number of rules and avoid unnecessary complexity.
Any comments are welcome.
The OAH has planned for the inclusion of now-exempted agencies should the Legislature move in that direction. Rather than modify its current structure, which has worked well, the OAH proposes to create free-standing mirrors of itself connected by a common mission and protocols. In cases where there is a large preexisting hearing department, the plan would be to reconfigure, applying OAH case management and standards, rather than disband and absorb. In other cases, smaller units would be combined to create viable organizations. It is fitting to end the year with a thank you.