Fast Track Procedures
To address disputes that require relief more quickly than the usual
time frames, Fast Track processing is available as a complement
to the standard complaint resolution paths. Fast Track processing
will be available when a complainant requests it and presents
a highly credible claim and persuasive showing that standard
processes will not be capable of resolving the complaint promptly
enough to provide meaningful relief. Fast Track processing will
be employed in only these limited circumstances. The Commission
strongly encourages potential complainants to seek Fast Track
processing only in cases that demand such accelerated treatment.
The Commission may resolve complaints using Fast Track procedures if the complaint
requires expeditious resolution. Fast Track procedures may include expedited
action on the pleadings by the Commission, expedited hearing before an ALJ, or
expedited action on requests for stay, extension of time, or other relief by
the Commission or an ALJ.
A complainant may request Fast Track processing of a complaint by including such
a request in its complaint, captioning the complaint in bold type face "COMPLAINT
REQUESTING FAST TRACK PROCESSING," and explaining why expedition is necessary.
Based on an assessment of the need for expedition, the period for filing answers,
interventions and comments to a complaint requesting Fast Track processing may
be shortened by the Commission.
After the answer is filed, the Commission will issue promptly an order specifying
the procedure and any schedule to be followed.
The Commission expects to issue a procedural decision to institute a hearing,
establish ADR or settlement procedures, if necessary and appropriate, within
two or three days after receiving answers to the complaint. An initial decision
on a complaint assigned to Fast Track processing could be expected in significantly
less time than the 60 days generally contemplated for complaints not directed
to the Fast Track process. Hearing procedures may be compressed into only a few
days if the circumstances warrant. For cases resolved based on the pleadings,
it is expected that the Commission could issue an order on the merits within
20 days after the answer is filed.
|
|
|