(a) General. The Presiding Official for a hearing conducted under §190.211 is an attorney on the staff of the Deputy Chief Counsel who is not engaged in any investigative or prosecutorial functions, such as the issuance of notices under this subpart. If the designated Presiding Official is unavailable, the Deputy Chief Counsel may delegate the powers and duties specified in this section to another attorney in the Office of Chief Counsel who is not engaged in any investigative or prosecutorial functions under this subpart.

(b) Time and place of the hearing. The Presiding Official will set the date, time and location of the hearing. To the extent practicable, the Presiding Official will accommodate the parties' schedules when setting the hearing. Reasonable notice of the hearing will be provided to all parties.

(c) Powers and duties of Presiding Official. The Presiding Official will conduct a fair and impartial hearing and take all action necessary to avoid delay in the disposition of the proceeding and maintain order. The Presiding Official has all powers necessary to achieve those ends, including, but not limited to the power to:

(1) Regulate the course of the hearing and conduct of the parties and their counsel;

(2) Receive evidence and inquire into the relevant and material facts;

(3) Require the submission of documents and other information;

(4) Direct that documents or briefs relate to issues raised during the course of the hearing;

(5) Set the date for filing documents, briefs, and other items;

(6) Prepare a recommended decision; and

(7) Exercise the authority necessary to carry out the responsibilities of the Presiding Official under this subpart.

[Amdt. 190-16, 78 FR 58911, Sept. 25, 2013]