Rule 18-23-4.9 - Pre-Hearing ConferencesThe Hearing Officer may hold a prehearing conference at a time and manner established by the Hearing Officer. The conference may be held telephonically. The Hearing Officer may issue a prehearing order outlining the issues to be discussed. The Hearing Officer shall oversee the discussion of topics including, but not limited to, the following:
1. Identification, simplification, and clarification of the issues underlying the hearing;2. Explanation of procedures, establishment of dates for the hearing, and explanation of the role of the parties, representatives, and the Hearing Officer;3. Stipulations and admissions of fact and the content and authenticity of documents;4. Disclosure of the number and identities of witnesses;5. Exploration of the possibility of settlement, if permissible; and,6. Identification of other such matters that promote the orderly and prompt conduct of the hearing. Miss. Code Ann. 43-1-2(4)(b); 2 C.F.R. § 200.342; 7 C.F.R. 273.15(j); 7 C.F.R. § 273.16(f); 7 C.F.R. § 273.16(h).