§ 962.3 (Rule 3) Petition for hearing.

Within 30 days of receiving the Postal Service's Complaint, issued under 39 CFR part 273, alleging liability under 31 U.S.C. 3802, the Respondent may request a hearing under the Administrative False Claims Act by filing a written Hearing Petition with the Recorder in accordance with § 962.22(b) (Rule 22). The Respondent's Petition must include the following:

(a) The words “Petition for Hearing Under the Administrative False Claims Act,” or other words reasonably identifying it as such.

(b) The name of the Respondent as well as work and home addresses, and work and home telephone numbers; or other addresses and telephone numbers where the Respondent may be contacted about the hearing proceedings.

(c) A statement of the date the Respondent received the Complaint issued by the Reviewing Official.

(d) A statement indicating whether the Respondent requests an oral hearing or a decision on the record.

(e) If the Respondent requests an oral hearing, a statement proposing a city for the hearing site, with justification for holding the hearing in that city, as well as recommended dates for the hearing. Alternatively, Respondent may propose a remote hearing by video. After considering the Respondent's request, the Presiding Officer will decide whether to hold a hearing and determine the time and place of the hearing.

(f) A statement admitting or denying each of the allegations of liability made in the Complaint and stating any defense the Respondent intends to rely on.