65- 407 C.M.R. ch. 110, § 13

Current through 2024-51, December 18, 2024

Section 407-110-13 - INQUIRIES

A.Initiation of Inquiry

The Commission may initiate an inquiry at any time for the purposes set forth in section 2(H) above.

B.Notice

The Commission in its discretion may provide notice of the initiation of any inquiry to any utility which it reasonably believes may be affected by the inquiry or to other persons that it believes may be interested in the proceeding. .

C.Presiding Officer

The Commission may appoint a presiding officer whose duties may include those set forth in section 8(G) of this Chapter.

D.Hearings

If a hearing is held, examination of persons testifying orally at any inquiry hearing shall be limited to questions from the Commission, the presiding officer and members of the Commission Staff, unless otherwise permitted by the Commission or presiding office.

E.Subpoenas and Discovery

In order to carry out its inquiry, the Commission and its Staff shall have all powers of discovery in connection with the subject matter of the inquiry and may require production of books, accounts, papers, records or verified copies of them by order or subpoena in accordance with the provisions of 35-A M.R.S.A. §112(4)(A).

F.Termination of Inquiry

Upon the termination of the Commission's inquiry, the Commission may:

1. initiate an adjudicatory investigation;

2. initiate a rulemaking pursuant to section 6 of this Chapter;

3. make findings of fact or issue a preliminary statement of policy which is not intended to be enforceable but which is intended as a basis for implementing a proceeding pursuant to subsections 1. or 2. above or as advice to assist persons in determining, exercising or complying with their legal rights, duties or privileges; or

4. terminate the inquiry with no action taken.

65- 407 C.M.R. ch. 110, § 13