(a) The ALJ makes an initial decision based on the record.

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(b) The initial decision includes the ALJ’s findings of fact, conclusions of law, and reasoning on all material issues.

(c) The OALJ transmits the initial decision to the Secretary and to the parties by submission to OES and, if filing in paper format was permitted by the ALJ, by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by another parcel service with delivery confirmation.

(d) For the purpose of this part, “initial decision” includes an ALJ’s modified decision after the Secretary’s remand of a case.

(Authority: 5 U.S.C. § 557(c); 20 U.S.C 1221e-3, 1234(f)(1), and 3474(a))[54 FR 19512, May 5, 1989. Redesignated and amended at 58 FR 43473, 43474, Aug. 16, 1993; 86 FR 52832, Sept. 23, 2021]