Section 3.1. Purpose, scope and authority

(a) This chapter sets forth a system of appeals and fair hearings which apply to grievances or complaints about services and activities funded by the Department.

(b) Provisions in this chapter include the following subjects:

(1) Parties who may request a fair hearing.

(2) Types of decisions or actions which are appealable.

(3) Procedures for filing complaints, appeals or requests for hearings.

(4) Procedures that area agencies on aging and the Department will follow for appeals and fair hearings.

(c) This chapter is adopted under the act of June 20, 1978 (P. L. 477, No. 70) (71 P. S. § § 581-1—581-12) and in conformity with the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C.A. § § 3001—3057g) and 45 CFR Part 1321 (relating to grants for state and community programs on aging) to assure the continued eligibility of the Commonwealth and its political subdivisions for Federal grants-in-aid.

(d) Except where inconsistent with the procedures set forth in this chapter, appeals and hearings shall be governed by the rules set forth in 1 Pa. Code Part II (relating to general rules of administrative practice and procedure).