1. (a) Staff is:

   1. (1) A party to any docket in which it participates; and
   2. (2) Bound by and shall conform to this part in any docket in which it participates.

2. (b) When participating in and appearing as a party in investigations at and dockets before the Arkansas Public Service Commission, staff’s duties include but are not limited to ensuring that:

   1. (1) Its recommendations are consistent with the public interest;
   2. (2) Its recommendations are consistent with the applicable statutes and court decisions;
   3. (3) Its recommendations are consistent with the provision of safe, reliable, and reasonably priced utility service;

   4. (4) Natural gas operators are in compliance with the:

      1. (A) Arkansas Gas Pipeline Code, 23 CAR pt. 451; and
      2. (B) Federal Pipeline Safety Code; and
   5. (5) It efficiently and effectively renders ad valorem assessments for utilities and carriers.

Codification Notes: This section was promulgated as Rule 1.05 of the Rules of Practice and Procedure prior to codification in the Code of Arkansas Rules.