Welfare and Institutions Code section 4711

(a)

Upon receipt of an appeal request form requesting mediation or a fair hearing, the hearing office shall immediately notify the claimant and the claimant’s authorized representative, in their preferred language, and the regional center or state-operated facility director in writing of all the following information applicable to mediation and fair hearings:

(1)

(A)The time, place, and date of the mediation or fair hearing, as applicable.

(B)

A place pursuant to paragraph (1) may include an agreement of the parties, or an order by a hearing officer, following a finding of good cause, to conduct the mediation or hearing by telephone, videoconference, or other electronic means.

(2)

The rights of the parties at the mediation or fair hearing pursuant to Section 4701 or 4711.5, as applicable.

(3)

The availability of advocacy assistance pursuant to paragraph (5) of subdivision (a) of Section 4701.

(4)

As applicable, contact information for persons or offices to conduct mediation or fair hearings, and to receive requests for continuance or consolidation.

(5)

The rights and responsibilities of the parties established pursuant to Sections 4711.5 and 4712.

(b)

This section shall become operative on March 1, 2023.