The Secretary may designate a hearing officer to preside in his or her place in all matters in which the Secretary is required or permitted by law to conduct a hearing. The hearing officer may administer oaths or issue subpoenas in connection with a hearing. The hearing officer shall report findings of fact to the Secretary in writing, within a reasonable time after the conclusion of the hearing, in contested cases within the meaning of 3 V.S.A. § 801(b)(2). Judgment on the findings in cases covered by this section shall be rendered only by the Secretary.
6 V.S.A. § 11