[Code of Federal Regulations] [Title 45, Volume 1] [Revised as of October 1, 2003] From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access [CITE: 45CFR160.564] [Page 695] TITLE 45--PUBLIC WELFARE AND HUMAN SERVICES PART 160--GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS--Table of Contents Subpart E--Civil Money Penalties: Procedures for Investigations, Imposition of Penalties, and Hearings Sec. 160.564 ALJ decision. (a) The ALJ must issue a decision, based only on the record, which must contain findings of fact and conclusions of law. (b) The ALJ may affirm, increase, or reduce the penalties imposed by the Secretary. (c) The ALJ must issue the decision to both parties within 60 days after the time for submission of post-hearing briefs and reply briefs, if permitted, has expired. If the ALJ fails to meet the deadline contained in this paragraph, he or she must notify the parties of the reason for the delay and set a new deadline. (d) The ALJ's decision is the final decision of the Secretary.