(a) Within 30 days after the record closes, the presiding official shall issue his or her recommended decision, except that if the subject of the appeal is an order of temporary closure under §573.4 of this chapter, the presiding official shall issue a recommended decision within 20 days after the record closes.

(b) The recommended decision shall be in writing, based on the whole record, and include:

(1) Recommended findings of fact and conclusions of law upon each material issue of fact or law; and

(2) A recommended grant or denial of relief.

(c) The presiding official's recommended decision is reviewed by the Commission. The Commission issues the final decision.