(a) After all public meetings under § 148.222 of this part are concluded, the Commandant (CG-5P), in coordination with the MARAD Administrator, will consider whether there are one or more specific and material factual issues that may be resolved by a formal evidentiary hearing.

(b) If the Commandant (CG-5P), in coordination with the MARAD Administrator, determines that one or more issues under paragraph (a) of this section exist, the Coast Guard will hold at least one formal evidentiary hearing under 5 U.S.C. 554 in the District of Columbia.

(c) The Commandant (CG-5P) files a request for assignment of an administrative law judge (ALJ) with the ALJ Docketing Center. The Chief ALJ designates an ALJ or other person to conduct the hearing.

(d) The recommended findings and the record developed in a hearing under paragraph (b) of this section are considered by the MARAD Administrator in deciding whether to approve or deny a license.