The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding administrative hearings by granting parties involved in contested cases or appealable agency actions the right to one peremptory change of administrative law judge. This change would be inserted into the existing law, which currently allows parties to file a nonperemptory motion to disqualify an administrative law judge for reasons such as bias or lack of expertise. The bill expands the reasons for filing such a motion to include conflicts of interest and being a material witness in the action.

Additionally, the bill makes technical changes to the language of the statute, including replacing the term "may" with "shall" to clarify the authority of parties to file motions. It also modifies the phrasing around the administrative law judge's ability to allow depositions and subpoenas, ensuring that these processes are clearly defined and permitted under the new provisions. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the fairness and clarity of administrative hearings by providing more options for parties involved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1092.07
House Engrossed Version: 41-1001, 41-1092.07, 41-1092, 41-1011, 41-1026, 41-1005, 41-1052, 41-1053, 41-1044, 41-1027
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-1092.07