As many are aware, the Commission's new automated docket setting program was put into operation in early November 2001. Unfortunately, the conversion process inadvertently eliminated codes changing the venue in a claim and the hearing location coeds reverted to the location based on a claimant's address at the time of the accident. Our IT personnel are currently attempting to recover this venue information. Nevertheless, the Commission is honoring all requests to reinstate any previously approved requests for change of venue. The Commission is also currently undertaking to establish a listing of Zip Codes for claimants residing in areas neighboring Maryland. Zip Codes from Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia and the District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.) will be added to the data tables in our new docket program referring individuals from those areas to the hearing location closest to their place of residence. In the meantime, as always, a request for change of venue can be filed by a party to a claim. To report a problem with an approved change of venue request, kindly call our Public Service staff at (410) 864-5100 or toll-free outside Metro Baltimore (800) 492-0479. Thank you for your patience. |