(a) Notwithstanding any other law or rule to the contrary, the department shall, before imposing any civil penalty, notify the political consultant in writing that the registration form required by this Part was not filed and shall afford the political consultant an opportunity to be heard in person or by counsel at an administrative hearing. Such notification shall be served personally or by certified mail to the political consultant’s last known address or in any manner authorized by the Civil Practice Law and Rules.

(b) Administrative hearings held pursuant to this section shall be conducted by the department’s Office of Administrative Hearings pursuant to Part 400 of this Title and subject to the rules provided therein.

(c) Any notice issued pursuant to this section shall be served at least 10 days prior to the date set for the administrative hearing.