5 CFR §1210.19

1. (a)General. The administrative judge may issue a bench decision at the close of the hearing. A bench decision is effective when issued.
2. (b)Transcription of bench decision. A transcribed copy of the decision will be prepared by the court reporter under the administrative judge's supervision to memorialize the oral decision. The official issuance of a bench decision is the date the administrative judge announces the decision and not the date the administrative judge signs the transcription.