(a) Any dispute between the Commission and a Responsible Party that involves the Responsible Party's rights, duties, or privileges, arising from matters involving a proposed Disciplinary Action, may be settled or resolved through informal procedures. Settlement of disputes is encouraged at any stage of the Disciplinary Hearing or before such proceedings commence.

(b) Unless otherwise provided by law, the parties may resolve a Disciplinary Hearing before final action by the Commission. Resolution may occur by stipulation, agreed settlement, consent order, waiver, default, or other method agreed upon by the parties.

(c) If the Commission and the other Responsible Party do not agree to a resolution of the dispute through informal processes, the Commission shall commence a Disciplinary Hearing to determine the Responsible Party's rights, duties, privileges, or the appropriate Disciplinary Action.

History Note: Authority G.S. 18C-114(a)(14);

Previously adopted as Rule 1C-002;

Eff. January 8, 2024;

Readopted Eff. March 27, 2024.