(a) All applications will be assigned to a presiding officer as soon after filing as is practicable.
(b) The presiding officer to whom the matter is assigned shall be responsible for the conduct of a proceeding from the time of the assignment until such time as a report or recommended decision is submitted to the commissioner, unless the matter is reassigned based on office needs. During this period any motion by any party shall be addressed to the presiding officer. The presiding officer shall determine, unless a hearing is mandated by the Transportation Law, whether a hearing shall be held; the time and place of any hearing; the manner in which the record is to be made; the time within which and the place where briefs or sworn statements are to be submitted, if permitted; and such other matters as are necessary for the proper discharge of the presiding officer's responsibility.