Following a hearing request, there is no contact regarding the merits of the case between the AHO and a person with an interest in the case unless there is notice to all parties and an opportunity to participate in the communications, except:

1. (1) when necessary to the disposition of the case;
2. (2) on matters of an informational or procedural nature; or
3. (3) the AHO may contact the local office in order to obtain information regarding the timeliness of the hearing request or whether an appealable issue exists.

Added at 19 Ok Reg 2199, eff 6-27-02