(1) When the hearing on the petition for review has been held and the record reviewed by a majority of the panel hearing the matter, a written final decision and order shall be issued that contains appropriate findings and conclusions, and articulates the basis for the final decision and order.

(2) The board will not issue advisory opinions on issues not presented to the board in the petition for review's statement of the issues, as modified by any prehearing order.

(3) Except as provided in RCW 36.70A.300 (2)(b) and WAC 242-03-575, the final decision and order shall be issued by the board within one hundred eighty days of receipt of the petition for review, or if multiple petitions are filed, within one hundred eighty days of receipt of the last petition that is consolidated. The order shall be served on each party of record.