The rules of procedure in this part supplement §§ 80.9 and 80.10 of this subtitle and govern the practice for hearings, decisions, and administrative review conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services, pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (section 602, 78 Stat. 252) and part 80 of this subtitle.

All pleadings, correspondence, exhibits, transcripts, of testimony, exceptions, briefs, decisions, and other documents filed in the docket in any proceeding may be inspected and copied in the office of the Civil Rights hearing clerk. Inquiries may be made at the Central Information Center, Department of Health and Human Services, 330 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20201.

As used in this part, words importing the singular number may extend and be applied to several persons or things, and vice versa. Words importing the masculine gender may be applied to females or organizations.

Upon notice to all parties, the reviewing authority or the presiding officer, with respect to matters pending before them, may modify or waive any rule in this part upon determination that no party will be unduly prejudiced and the ends of justice will thereby be served.