Sec.  1.1200   Introduction.

   (a) Purpose. To ensure the fairness and integrity of its decision-making,
   the Commission has prescribed rules to regulate ex parte presentations in
   Commission proceedings. These rules specify “exempt” proceedings, in which
   ex parte presentations may be made freely ( Sec. 1.1204(b)),
   “permit-but-disclose” proceedings, in which ex parte presentations to
   Commission decision-making personnel are permissible but subject to certain
   disclosure requirements ( Sec. 1.1206), and “restricted” proceedings in which ex
   parte presentations to and from Commission decision-making personnel are
   generally prohibited ( Sec. 1.1208). In all proceedings, a certain period (”the
   Sunshine Agenda period”) is designated in which all presentations to
   Commission decision-making personnel are prohibited ( Sec. 1.1203). The
   limitations on ex parte presentations described in this section are subject
   to certain general exceptions set forth in  Sec. 1.1204(a). Where the public
   interest so requires in a particular proceeding, the Commission and its
   staff retain the discretion to modify the applicable ex parte rules by
   order, letter, or public notice. Joint Boards may modify the ex parte rules
   in proceedings before them.

   (b) Inquiries concerning the propriety of ex parte presentations should be
   directed to the Office of General Counsel.

   [ 62 FR 15853 , Apr. 3, 1997]