(a) Purpose of and scheduling of hearings. An opportunity for a hearing before an administrative law judge shall be provided for each action initiated under §207.102 of this subpart. The purpose of such hearing shall be to receive evidence and hear argument in order to determine whether a charged party has committed a prohibited act and if so, what sanctions are appropriate. Hearings shall proceed with all reasonable expedition, and, insofar as practicable, shall be held at one place, continuing until completed, unless otherwise ordered by the administrative law judge.

(b) Joinder or consolidation. The administrative law judge may order such joinder or consolidation of proceedings initiated under §207.102 of this subpart at the administrative law judge's discretion.

(c) Compliance with Administrative Procedure Act. The administrative law judge shall conduct a hearing that complies with the requirements of section 554 of title 5 of the United States Code.