Section 24. Procedure for Enforcement Division to Request a Hearing

   (a) The Fraud and Compliance Unit created pursuant to OCGA 34-9-24 shall be known as the Enforcement Division of the State Board of Workers' Compensation.

(b) A request for an action or proceeding may be filed by the State Board of Workers' Compensation Enforcement Division to determine the assessment of civil penalties against any person or entity who has violated the provisions of Chapter 9 of Title 34. The request shall be filed on Form WC-24 and then assigned to an Administrative Law Judge for review. Hearings shall be conducted pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 34-9-102 and Board Rule 102. In addition, venue may be determined as provided by law pertaining to that person or entity.

(c) Any party appealing a decision of the Administrative Law Judge shall do so pursuant to O.C.G.A. §§ 34-9-103 and 34-9-105, and Board Rules 103 and 105.

(d) During an investigation of alleged noncompliance with the provisions of Chapter 9 of Title 34, the Enforcement Division of the State Board of Workers' Compensation may issue a notice for verification of coverage directing the employer, within fifteen days of the date of the notice, to provide either proof of workers' compensation coverage or proof as to why the employer is not subject to the Act. This notice shall be considered a directive of the Board.