b) The Hearing Officer shall have all authority necessary to conduct a fair and orderly hearing including, but not limited to, the power to:

1. 1) Schedule the hearing, depositions and prehearing conferences;
2. 2) Rule on motions and requests;
3. 3) Administer oaths and affirmations;
4. 4) Rule or reserve ruling on the admissibility of evidence offered and amendments to pleadings;
5. 5) Establish the time for making written submissions and closure of the record; and
6. 6) Impose sanctions in accordance with Section166.295 of this Subpart.
7. 7) The Hearing Officer may ask any questions of the parties to assure a full and complete record.