(a) An oral hearing will be conducted at the Hearing Official's discretion. An oral hearing may be conducted in-person, by telephone, by video conference, or other appropriate means as directed by the Hearing Official.

(b) When the Hearing Official determines that an oral hearing will not be conducted, the decision will be based solely on the written submissions.

(c) The Hearing Official will arrange for the recording and transcription of an oral hearing, which will serve as the official record of the hearing.

(d) The hearing may proceed if a party fails, without excuse, to appear.