Rick Lazio: “Mr. Chairman, I want to compliment the gentlewoman from Texas for her interest in ensuring that there are appropriate…”

“Mr. Chairman, I want to compliment the gentlewoman from Texas for her interest in ensuring that there are appropriate levels of due process for people that may be aggrieved in terms of administrative decisions. Let me suggest, however, that we have gone through considerable effort to ensure that we have a fair and equitable administrative grievance procedure in the bill. For example, we allow for a clear opportunity for a hearing by an impartial party upon timely request within a reasonable period of time; the ability to examine any written documents or records or regulations that might be raised with respect to the proposed actions; the ability to be represented by another party of their choice at any such hearing; and the abilities to call witnesses and to have others make statements on their behalf. Beyond that, somebody who is subject to an administrative procedure, including a possible procedure for eviction, is entitled to pursue all of their rights through the courts of the State and of our Nation. Due process is thoroughly considered and assured, and that is in the bill.”