DOL issues guide on appeals process under the Continued Assistance Act

The CNMI Department of Labor is providing guidance to claimants regarding provisions under the Continued Assistance for Unemployed Workers Act of 2020. 

The passage of the Continued Assistance Act provided, among other things, clarified guidance on the appeals process for unemployment claims. The Act provides that all levels of appeals should be carried out in accordance with the unemployment compensation law of Hawaii. Hawaii state law does not provide a legal framework for second level appeals. 

In the event that an appellant wishes to contest an administrative order (i.e., the decision by the administrative hearing officer after an administrative hearing), the appellant must submit a written request to reopen the decision. The written request should state the reasons to support a reversal and must be submitted to the Administrative Hearing Office, either in person or by email. 

In the event a request to reopen the decision is denied, or if the appellant still disagrees with a subsequent decision, the appellant may seek judicial review with the CNMI Superior Court under the local Administrative Procedures Act. All forms, filings fees, and filing deadlines will be as established by court rule.  Upon notice or request, the Administrative Hearing Office will provide certified copies of the order and admitted exhibits to the CNMI Superior Court. 

CNMI DOL recognizes that these are new procedures and challenging times for everyone. While the Administrative Hearing Office cannot provide legal advice or engage in ex parte communications, the office is here to help and do its best to make sure cases are timely heard. Do not hesitate to contact the office with any questions about these procedures and preparations for telephonic or online hearings. 

Claimants may contact the CNMI DOL Administrative Hearing Office at:

Administrative Hearing Office
1357 Mednilla Avenue, Capital Hill
P.O. Box 10007 | Saipan, MP 96950
Phone: (670) 664-3291/2/3 
Email: hearing@dol.gov.mp

Due to large call volumes and customer traffic, there may be delays in responses. If you have questions about the Administrative Hearing Office, refer to the Administrative Hearing Office FAQ sheet and previously published orders at www.marianaslabor.net. (PR)