(a) The ALJ shall conduct a fair and impartial hearing, avoid delay,
maintain order, and assure that a record of the proceeding is made.
(b) The ALJ has the authority to--
(1) Set and change the date, time, and place of the hearing upon
reasonable notice to the parties;
(2) Continue or recess the hearing in whole or in part for a
reasonable period of time;
(3) Hold conferences to identify or simplify the issues, or to
consider other matters that may aid in the expeditious disposition of
the proceeding;
(4) Administer oaths and affirmations;
(5) Issue subpoenas requiring the attendance of witnesses and the
production of documents at depositions or at hearings;
(6) Rule on motions and other procedural matters;
(7) Regulate the scope and timing of discovery;
(8) Regulate the course of the hearing and the conduct of
representatives and parties;
(9) Examine witnesses;
(10) Receive, rule on, exclude, or limit evidence;
(11) Upon motion of a party, take official notice of facts;
(12) Upon motion of a party, decide cases, in whole or in part, by
summary judgment where there is no disputed issue of material fact;
(13) Conduct any conference, argument, or hearing on motions in
person or by telephone; and
(14) Exercise such other authority as is necessary to carry out the
responsibilities of the ALJ under this part.
(c) The ALJ does not have the authority to find Federal statutes or
regulations invalid.
