2471.8—Conduct of factfinding and other hearings; prehearing conferences.
(a)
A designated representative of the Panel, when so appointed to conduct a hearing, shall have the authority on behalf of the Panel to:
(1)
Administer oaths, take the testimony or deposition of any person under oath, receive other evidence, and issue subpenas;
(2)
Conduct the hearing in open, or in closed session at the discretion of the designated representative for good cause shown;
(5)
Determine all procedural matters concerning the hearing, including the length of sessions, conduct of persons in attendance, recesses, continuances, and adjournments; and take any other appropriate procedural action which, in the judgment of the designated representative, will promote the purpose and objectives of the hearing.
(b)
A prehearing conference may be conducted by the designated representative of the Panel in order to:
(1)
Inform the parties of the purpose of the hearing and the procedures under which it will take place;
(4)
Discuss any other relevant matters which will assist the parties in the resolution of the dispute.