(1) Following the board's determination on reasonable cause, the board shall provide the complainant, the respondent and the employing agency with a copy of the written determination on reasonable cause and a copy of the board staff's written investigation report. If reasonable cause is found, the determination of reasonable cause shall include a statement of the alleged violations. Prior to scheduling a public hearing, the board shall provide the respondent with an explanation of the option to request that the hearing be conducted by an administrative law judge if the penalty and costs for the alleged violation may be greater than $500.

(2) Within 30 days of service of the written determination on reasonable cause, the respondent shall file an answer to the written determination on reasonable cause which shall state his/her response to the alleged violations. The answer shall include either a request for or a waiver of the right to request an administrative law judge if the penalty and costs for the alleged violation may be greater than $500.

(3) Failure to file an answer to the written determination on reasonable cause within 30 days of service constitutes a default, and the board may proceed to resolve the case without further notice to, or hearing for the benefit of, the respondent.

(4) Within 10 days after service of a default order under subsection (3) of this section, the respondent may file a written motion requesting that the order be vacated, and stating the grounds relied upon. During the time within which a party may file a written motion under this subsection, the board chair or a designated board member may adjourn further proceedings or conduct them without the participation of the respondent.

(5) Within 30 days of service of the written determination on reasonable cause, the respondent shall have the right to request an administrative law judge if the penalty and costs for the alleged violation may be greater than $500. If the respondent fails to request an administrative law judge within 30 days, the right to have the matter presided over by an administrative law judge is waived. If the respondent does not request an administrative law judge within 30 days and has not defaulted pursuant to this section, the board staff may, at its option, commence an adjudicative proceeding to resolve the matter.

(6) The respondent shall be notified of the date of the hearing no later than 20 days before the hearing date.