§180.205. Authority.

Administer oaths and affirmations and examine witnesses;

Rule on offers of proof and receive evidence;

Take depositions or have depositions taken when the ends of justice would be served;

Regulate the course of the hearing and the conduct of persons at the hearing;

Hold conferences for the settlement or simplification of the issues by consent of the parties;

Rule on motions, procedural requests, and similar matters;

Make and issue initial decisions;

Impose appropriate sanctions against any person failing to obey an order, refusing to adhere to reasonable standards of orderly and ethical conduct, or refusing to act in good faith;

Issue subpoenas if authorized by law; and

Exercise any other powers necessary and appropriate for the purpose and conduct of the proceeding as authorized by the rules in this part or in conformance with statute, including 5 U.S.C. 551-59.