7 CFR § 1.309 - Answer and request for hearing.

(a) Within 30 days of the date of receipt or refusal to accept service of the complaint, the respondent may file an answer with the reviewing official.

(b) In the answer, the respondent—

(1) Shall admit or deny each of the allegations of liability made in the complaint;

(2) Shall state any defense upon which the respondent intends to rely;

(3) Shall state the name, address, and telephone number of the person authorized to act as the respondent's representative, if any;

(4) May state any reasons why the respondent contends the penalty and assessment should be reduced or modified; and

(5) May request a hearing.