New ALJ Backs Out In Tampa

From the Bradenton (FL) Herald:

A new judge selected and trained to help clear a backlog of Social Security disability appeals has declined the job.

"The Social Security Administration still intends to hire an administrative law judge for the Tampa hearing offices," Desmond Thornton, a Social Security spokesman, said Friday in confirming a new judge would have to be selected.

Unfortunately, because the individual who had accepted the position changed his mind shortly before he was due to report, the Social Security Administration is unable to repost the vacancy right away, Thornton said. The Office of Personal Management has to announce the opening and so far, that hasn't been done.

The news of the delay angered Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Tampa, who represents part of Manatee County.

"They don't have a backup plan. Now someone else will have to go through the training," Castor said.