(1) "Continuance" means a postponement or an extension of time after a notice of hearing or commission review has been issued.

(2) Parties may agree to a continuance.

(3) If the parties do not agree to a continuance, the person requesting the continuance must:

(a) Notify the presiding officer and the other party why a continuance is needed; and

(b) Present this request as soon as the person:

(i) Receives the notice of the hearing or commission review; or

(ii) Knows the reasons requiring the continuance.

(4) The presiding officer will consider whether the request was made promptly and may grant a continuance for good cause shown, or on his or her own motion.

(5) During a hearing, if it appears consistent with the public interest or in the interests of justice that further testimony or argument should be considered, the presiding officer may continue the hearing and set the date to introduce additional argument or evidence. This oral ruling is final notice of a continued hearing.