(1) Procedure for resolving disputes.

(a) Informal resolution. Parties must make good faith efforts to resolve informally all discovery disputes. The commission may designate a person to assist the parties to resolve discovery issues, at the request or with the consent of the parties.

(b) Motion to compel. A party may file a written motion, or move orally at a prehearing conference, to compel discovery if the parties cannot resolve a dispute informally. The presiding officer will hear a motion to compel discovery at the earliest reasonable time. The presiding officer may conduct telephone hearings or conferences for the argument of discovery disputes. The presiding officer may make discovery rulings orally on the record or by written order. The presiding officer's discovery rulings are subject to review under WAC 480-07-810.

(2) Sanctions for failure to comply. Any party may by motion, or the commission may on its own motion, propose that sanctions be imposed if a party fails or refuses to comply with the commission's discovery rules or an oral or written order resolving a dispute under this section. The commission may impose sanctions for such violations including, but not limited to, default, dismissal, striking of testimony, evidence, or cross-examination, or monetary penalties as provided by law.