Before holding a hearing regarding an agent's unfair or deceptive practice, the Insurance Commissioner MUST give ___ days' notice.

• A. 15 days
• B. 30 days
• C. 45 days
• D. 60 days

Answer: (B)

Providing notice prior to an administrative hearing is a due-process requirement. For hearings on a licensee’s unfair or deceptive practices, the Insurance Commissioner must give at least 30 days’ notice. This lead time lets the agent prepare a defense, gather witnesses and documents, and arrange representation, and it allows the agency to present its case with proper opportunity for response. The notice should specify the hearing’s date, time, place, and the specific issues to be considered, so all parties understand what will be addressed. Shorter notice like 15 days may leave insufficient time for preparation, while longer notice like 45 or 60 days can delay action unnecessarily; 30 days provides a fair balance.