(a) Proposed findings of fact, conclusions, and order. Within twenty
(20) days of filing of the transcript of the testimony or such
additional time as the administrative law judge may allow, each party
may file with the administrative law judge, subject to the judge's
discretion under Sec. 18.55, proposed findings of fact, conclusions of
law, and order together with a supporting brief expressing the reasons
for such proposals. Such proposals and brief shall be served on all
parties, and shall refer to all portions of the record and to all
authorities relied upon in support of each proposal.
(b) Decision of the administrative law judge. Within a reasonable
time after the time allowed for the filing of the proposed findings of
fact, conclusions of law, and order, or within thirty (30) days after
receipt of an agreement containing consent findings and order disposing
of the disputed matter in whole, the administrative law judge shall make
his or her decision. The decision of the administrative law judge shall
include findings of fact and conclusions of law, with reasons therefor,
upon each material issue of fact or law presented on the record. The
decision of the administrative law judge shall be based upon the whole
record. It shall be supported by reliable and probative evidence. Such
decision shall be in accordance with the regulations and rulings of the
statute or regulation conferring jurisdiction.
