(a) An appeal to the department by a party is a matter of right if the decision of the appeal tribunal reverses or modifies the determination of the department, or if a question arising under AS 23.20.383 is presented. In all other cases further appeal to the department is permitted only at the discretion of the department.
(b) The department on its own motion may initiate a review of a decision or determination of an appeal tribunal within 30 days after the date of the decision. The department may affirm, modify, or reverse the findings or conclusions of the appeal tribunal solely on the basis of evidence previously submitted, or upon the basis of additional evidence that it may take or direct to be taken.