1. (a) Except as otherwise provided in this article, the following requirements apply to the filing of any document with the CHO.

   1. (1) Documents shall be filed with the CHO by electronic means unless the party is unable to do so. The original document need not be filed with the CHO unless otherwise ordered by the presiding officer. The CHO shall provide the parties with instructions for the electronic submission of documents in the Notice of Hearing.
   2. (2) Documents delivered to the CHO by the U.S. Postal Service are deemed filed on the business day received by the CHO. Documents hand-delivered to the CHO or received by electronic means during regular business hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) are deemed filed on the date received. Documents received after regular business hours are deemed filed on the next business day.

2. (b) By filing a document with the CHO, a party or representative certifies all of the following in good faith:

   1. (1) The party or representative has read the document.
   2. (2) The party or representative is not presenting it for any improper purpose, such as to harass, to cause unnecessary delay, or to increase the cost of litigation needlessly.
   3. (3) Any legal claims are consistent with existing law or a good-faith argument to change existing law.
   4. (4) Any factual claims have or are likely to have evidentiary support.

Note: Authority cited: Section 11400.20, Government Code; and Sections 14536 and 40502, Public Resources Code. Reference: Section 11400.20, Government Code.

History

1. New section filed 5-12-2026; operative 7-1-2026 (Register 2026, No. 20).