252.42—Appeals procedures.
(a) Appeals of annual or special audits.
An operator who disagrees with the findings, interpretations or decisions in connection with audit reports of the Office of the Inspector General and who cannot settle said differences by negotiation with the Contracting Officer may submit an appeal to the Maritime Administrator from such findings, interpretations or decisions in accordance with Part 205 of this chapter.
(b) Appeals of administrative determinations—
(1) Policy.
An operator who disagrees with the findings, interpretations or decisions of the Contracting Officer with respect to the administration of this part may submit an appeal from such findings, interpretations or decisions as follows:
(i)
Appeals shall be made in writing to the Secretary, Maritime Subsidy Board, Maritime Administration, within 60 days following the date of the document notifying the operator of the administration determination of the Contracting Officer. In his appeal to the Secretary the operator shall indicate whether or not he desires a hearing.
(ii)
The appellant will be notified in writing if a hearing is to be held and whether he is required to submit additional facts for consideration in connection with the appeal.
(2) Appeal to the Secretary of Transportation.
An operator who disagrees with the Board may appeal such findings and determinations by filing a written petition for review of the Board's action with the Secretary of Transportation. The petition shall be filed in accordance with provisions of the Department of Transportation pertaining to Secretarial review.
(3)
Hearings, The Rules of Practice and Procedures, 46 CFR part 201, subpart M, shall be followed for all hearings granted under 46 U.S.C. 1176 and 46 CFR 252.42.