1. (1) The maximum time limit for processing appeals is forty-five (45) days for Foster Care removals and ninety (90) days for Adoption Assistance and Indicated Child Abuse cases. The postponement of a scheduled hearing shall not exceed thirty (30) days, and the time limit for processing the appeal shall be extended because of:

   1. (a) Illness of the appellant;
   2. (b) because of circumstances beyond the control of the appellant or the Department.
2. (2) The time limit applies to the period extending from the date the request is received by the Department until the date the initial order is entered.

Authority: T.C.A. §§4-5-314, 37-5-105, and 37-5-112. Administrative History: Original rule filed May 29, 2002; effective August 12, 2002.