N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. tit. 3, § 2.5 – Hearing officer.

(a) to fix the time or times when, and the place or places where, the evidence shall be taken;
(b) to regulate the course of the hearings and the conduct of the parties and their counsel;
(c) to consider and rule upon all objections to evidence and motions regarding the same, and to receive any offers of proof.

The superintendent may designate a hearing officer to take any evidence for the superintendent. The hearing officer shall have all powers necessary for the taking of evidence, including but not limited to the following powers: