21 NCAC 68 .0615             INFORMAL PROCEEDINGS

(a)  In addition to formal hearings pursuant to G.S. 90-113.33 and G.S. 90-113.34, the Board may conduct informal proceedings in order to settle certain matters of dispute. A substance use disorder professional practicing pursuant to a credential or other authority granted by the Board may be invited to attend a meeting with the Board or a committee of the Board on an informal basis to discuss matters as the Board may advise in its communication to the person. No public record of such proceeding shall be made nor shall any individual be placed under oath to give testimony. Information discussed by a person in an informal hearing before the Board may be used in a formal hearing against the Respondent if initiated.

(b)  Attendance at such an informal meeting shall not be required and is at the discretion of the person so invited. A person invited to attend an informal meeting shall be entitled to have counsel present.

(c)  As a result of such informal meeting, the Board may recommend:

(1)           actions to be taken by a person;

(2)           the person be offered the opportunity to enter into a consent order;

(3)           that it institute a formal public hearing concerning a person; or

(4)           that it take other public or non-public action, to include disciplinary and non-disciplinary actions.

History Note:        Authority G.S. 90-113.33; 150B-22; 150B-38(h);

Eff. April 1, 2001;

Amended Eff. April 1, 2011;

Readopted Eff. October 1, 2020.