(a)
If a party objects to the issues described in the notice of hearing, he or she must notify the ALJ in writing at the earliest possible opportunity before the time set for the hearing, and no later than 5 calendar days before the hearing.
(b)
The party must state the reasons for his or her objections and send a copy of the objections to all other parties to the appeal.
(c)
The ALJ makes a decision on the objections either in writing or at the hearing.
[70 FR 11472, Mar. 8, 2005, as amended at 74 FR 65335, Dec. 9, 2009]