(a) The ALJ may schedule prehearing conferences as appropriate.

(b) Upon the motion of any party or sua sponte, the ALJ may schedule a prehearing conference at a reasonable time in advance of the hearing.

(c) The ALJ may consider the following at a prehearing conference:

(1) Simplification of the issues;

(2) Stipulations of fact and of the authenticity, accuracy, and admissibility of documents;

(3) Submission of the case on briefs in lieu of an oral hearing;

(4) Limitation of the number of witnesses;

(5) The exchange of witness lists and of proposed exhibits;

(6) Discovery;

(7) The time and place for the hearing; and

(8) Such other matters as may tend to expedite the fair and just disposition of the proceedings.