42 CFR §431.222

1. (a)May respond to a series of individual requests for hearing by conducting a single group hearing;
2. (b)May consolidate hearings only in cases in which the sole issue involved is one of Federal or State law or policy;
3. (c)Must follow the policies of this subpart and its own policies governing hearings in all group hearings; and
4. (d)Must permit each person to present his own case or be represented by his authorized representative.