Ex Parte Presentations in Commission Proceedings

The Commission amends its regulations concerning ex parte presentations in Commission proceedings. The new rules simplify the determination in particular proceedings of whether ex parte presentations are permissible and whether they must be disclosed. The proposed rules also modify the Commission's ``Sunshine period prohibition.'' Certain other minor amendments of the rules are made. The intended effect of the amendments is to make the rules simpler and easier to comply with, to enhance the fairness of the Commission's processes, and to facilitate the public's ability to communicate with the Commission.