What are the powers of the ALJ?

The ALJ will have all powers necessary to conduct a fair, orderly, expeditious, and impartial hearing process relating to Forest Service's or other Department's condition or prescription that has been referred to the ALJ for hearing, including the powers to: (a) Administer oaths and affirmations; (b) Issue subpoenas under § 1.647; (c) Shorten or enlarge time periods set forth in these regulations, except that the deadline in § 1.660(a)(2) can be extended only if the ALJ must be replaced under § 1.632 or 1.633; (d) Rule on motions; (e) Authorize discovery as provided for in §§ 1.641 through 1.647; (f) Hold hearings and conferences; (g) Regulate the course of hearings; (h) Call and question witnesses; (i) Exclude any person from a hearing or conference for misconduct or other good cause; (j) Summarily dispose of any hearing request or issue as to which the ALJ determines there is no disputed issue of material fact; (k) Issue a decision consistent with § 1.660(b) regarding any disputed issue of material fact; and (l) Take any other action authorized by law.