Section 20-74o-4 - Hearing panel, disciplinary action(a)Petition. Any person may file a petition with the commission pursuant to the regulations of Connecticut state agencies, sections 17a-636-11 through 17a-636-62 if they have cause to believe that a certified substance abuse counselor has violated any statutes, regulations or the board's code of ethics as set forth in the board's certification manual.(b)Investigation. The commission may direct the executive director to conduct any investigation that it deems necessary. (1) If, after investigation of the petition, the executive director finds there is not sufficient evidence to establish the alleged violation, he shall notify the commission, petitioner and respondent and no further action shall be taken.(2) If, after investigation of the petition, the executive director determines there is evidence to substantiate the alleged violation, he shall submit a written report to the commission which includes a summary of the evidence, specific statutes, regulations or codes of ethics which are alleged to have been violated, and his recommendations.(c)Panel. The commission shall designate a hearing panel consisting of three members of the commission for the purpose of conducting any hearing regarding a complaint against a certified substance abuse counselor and reporting its recommendations to the commission.(d)Notice of hearing. The executive director shall issue notice of the hearing. Such notice shall comply with the provisions of section 4-177 of the Connecticut general statutes and sections 17a-636-11 through 17a-636-62 of the regulations of Connecticut state agencies.(e)Hearing. All parties shall be afforded the opportunity to respond and present oral and written evidence on the issues involved in the complaint.(f)Report. The panel shall make a written report to the commission with a copy to the respondents and any other party deemed by the panel to be entitled to such copy. Such report shall include the recommendations of the panel, a brief statement of findings of fact and reasons supporting the recommendations.(g)Decision. The commission shall issue its decision on the complaint which shall be binding on all parties.(h)Registry. The counselor's name shall be removed from the registry if the certification is revoked by the commission. If the counselor is suspended by the commission, notice of the suspension shall be recorded in the registry during the time the suspension is in force.Conn. Agencies Regs. § 20-74o-4
Effective November 27, 1992