What is the role of an Administrative Law Judge in New York agency hearings?

• A. To conduct the hearing, receive evidence, control procedures, question witnesses, and issue proposed findings and conclusions for the agency's decision.
• B. To draft final rules without public input.
• C. To oversee the agency's budget.
• D. To approve all agency regulations.

Answer: (A)

In an agency hearing, the Administrative Law Judge acts as the neutral fact-finder and process manager, guiding the hearing from start to finish. The judge runs the proceeding, accepts and weighs evidence, rules on procedural and evidentiary issues, and may question witnesses to clarify testimony. After the hearing, the judge prepares proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law to help the agency decide the case. The agency then issues the final decision, often adopting, modifying, or rejecting the judge’s proposed findings.

This role keeps the process fair and orderly, ensuring due process and that the agency bases its decision on the evidence presented. The other options involve tasks like drafting final rules, budgeting, or approving regulations, which are policy or administrative functions outside the judge’s hearing and decision-making duties.