43 CFR 4.1051: What are the requirements for the ALJ's recommended decision?

(a) Timing. The ALJ must issue a recommended decision within 180 days after issuance of the docketing notice under § 4.1020(a)(3), unless the ALJ issues an order finding good cause to issue the recommended decision at a later date.

(b) Content. (1) The recommended decision must contain all of the following:

(i) Recommended findings of fact on all disputed issues of material fact;

(ii) Recommended conclusions of law:

(A) Necessary to make the findings of fact (such as rulings on materiality and on the admissibility of evidence); and

(B) As to whether the applicable criteria for Federal acknowledgment have been met; and

(iii) Reasons for the findings and conclusions.

(2) The ALJ may adopt any of the findings of fact proposed by one or more of the parties.

(c) Service. Promptly after issuing a recommended decision, the ALJ must:

(1) Serve the recommended decision on each party to the hearing process; and

(2) Forward the complete hearing record to the Assistant Secretary—Indian Affairs, including the recommended decision.