Wisconsin Administrative Code Department of Administration-Division of Hearings and Appeals
Wisconsin Department of Administration – Division of Hearings and Appeals (DHA)
The Division of Hearings and Appeals is a part of the Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA). Its main function is to provide independent administrative hearings for disputes involving state agencies. The rules governing its operations are found in the Wisconsin Administrative Code, Chapter HA (sometimes broken down into HA 1–10 for procedures).
Key Areas Covered in the Administrative Code
Authority and Purpose (HA 1)
Establishes DHA as an independent hearing agency within the DOA.
Ensures fair, impartial, and timely hearings for individuals or organizations appealing agency decisions.
Applies to administrative decisions made by most state agencies unless a statute provides otherwise.
Filing Appeals (HA 2)
Specifies who may file an appeal (generally the affected party or their representative).
Sets time limits for filing appeals after receiving an agency decision.
Outlines required content of an appeal, including identification of parties, description of the decision being appealed, and grounds for appeal.
Pre-Hearing Procedures (HA 3)
Describes notification requirements to the parties.
Allows for requests for hearings, submissions of evidence, and motions before the hearing.
Establishes procedures for consolidation or dismissal of appeals.
Conduct of Hearings (HA 4)
Hearing officers preside over cases impartially.
Rules for presentation of evidence, witnesses, and testimony.
Hearings are generally informal but follow due process standards.
Decisions and Orders (HA 5)
Hearing officers issue written decisions based on the evidence.
Decisions must state findings of fact, conclusions of law, and reasons for the decision.
Agencies are required to implement the decision unless a higher authority overturns it.
Post-Hearing Actions (HA 6)
Explains how to request reconsideration of a hearing officer’s decision.
Outlines how parties may appeal to circuit court if permitted by statute.
Administrative Rules and Procedures (HA 7–10)
DHA may adopt procedures for specific types of hearings, such as tax appeals, social services disputes, or professional licensing cases.
Rules cover records retention, confidentiality, and public access to hearing information.
DHA Responsibilities
Conduct fair, impartial hearings for disputes involving state agencies.
Ensure timely resolution of appeals.
Maintain records and reporting of hearings and outcomes.
Provide guidance to agencies and parties on administrative hearing procedures.
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