Section 503. Disqualifications to Participate in Hearings.--(a) No referee, member of the board, or employe of the department shall participate in the hearing of any case in which he himself is an interested party. The board may designate an alternate to serve in the absence or disqualification of any referee.
(b) Referees shall conduct their hearings de novo.
(503 amended Dec. 9, 2002, P.L.1336, No.158)