The ALJ shall have all powers necessary to conduct fair, expeditious and impartial hearings, including the power to:
- (a) Administer oaths and affirmations and examine witnesses;
- (b) Rule on offers of proof and receive evidence;
- (c) Take depositions or have depositions taken when the ends of justice would be served;
- (d) Regulate the course of the hearing and the conduct of persons at the hearing;
- (e) Hold conferences for the settlement or simplification of the issues by consent of the parties;
- (f) Rule on motions, procedural requests, and similar matters;
- (g) Make and issue initial decisions;
- (h) 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;
- (i) Issue subpoenas if authorized by law; and
- (j) 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.