(1) A qualified participant, former qualified participant, or refund beneficiary may request a hearing on a claim involving the participant's or beneficiary's rights under Tier 2. On written request, the department shall provide for a hearing that must be conducted under chapter 4 of the administrative procedures act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL 24.271 to 24.288. An individual may be represented by counsel or other authorized agent at a hearing conducted under this section.

    (2) Chapters 2, 3, and 5 of the administrative procedures act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL 24.224 to 24.228, 24.231 to 24.264, and 24.291 to 24.292, do not apply to the establishment, implementation, administration, operation, investment, or distribution of Tier 2.