The following words and terms, when used with this subchapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

Adjudicative officer—The final deciding official of an agency, whether designated an administrative law judge, hearing officer, examiner, referee, or otherwise, who is presiding over a proceeding at the time of final disposition. The term may include more than one official, such as a hearing board.

Final disposition—A final adjudication on the merits of a case, withdrawal or termination of charges by the Commonwealth agency, or approval of a settlement of a case by the Commonwealth agency initiating the case.

Proceeding—An action initiated by a Commonwealth agency, up to and including final disposition.