Opinion ID: 2083741
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 17

Heading: appellants' procedural challenge: due process

Text: RCC and AGP both argue on appeal that the PSC erred in denying them procedural due process during the claims hearing. RCC and AGP both assert, in summary, that as a result of the PSC's refusal to allow them the opportunity to cross-examine Peterson during the claims hearing, they were denied due process. AGP further asserts that the PSC's receipt of an exhibit after the claims hearing had begun, and its subsequent refusal to admit into evidence an exhibit AGP offered during proceedings on the motion for rehearing, denied AGP due process. We conclude these arguments are without merit. We have recognized that although the required procedures may vary according to the interests at stake in a particular context, the fundamental requirement of due process is the opportunity to be heard at a meaningful time and in a meaningful manner. Marshall v. Wimes, 261 Neb. 846, 851, 626 N.W.2d 229, 234-35 (2001). With regard to proceedings before an administrative agency or tribunal, we have stated that procedural due process requires notice, identification of the accuser, factual basis for the accusation, reasonable time and opportunity to present evidence concerning the accusation, and a hearing before an impartial decisionmaker. Id. The PSC's rules of procedure, 291 Neb. Admin. Code, ch. 1, did not bind the PSC to the technical rules of evidence. The record in the instant appeal shows that notwithstanding the lack of opportunity to cross-examine Peterson, the parties were afforded the opportunity to present both documentary and testimonial evidence in support of their claims at the claims hearing, and that RCC and AGP did in fact present such evidence. A review of the record shows that testimony and documents that contradicted RCC and AGP's claims were also admitted. The receipt of an exhibit after the claim hearing had begun and the refusal of the PSC to accept new evidence at the rehearing did not amount to a denial of due process. As reflected in its order, the PSC considered all of the evidence before reaching its decision. Given the record and the procedure afforded, we cannot say that RCC or AGP was denied due process.