(2)Assign an ALJ to preside over the hearing process and issue a decision; and
(3)Issue a docketing notice that informs the parties of the docket number and the ALJ assigned to the case; and
(b)The ALJ must issue a notice setting the time, place, and method for conducting an initial prehearing conference under § 45.40. This notice may be combined with the docketing notice under paragraph (a)(3) of this section.