Decision by Commission on appeal or review of initial decision

(a) On appeal from or review of the initial decision, the Commission has all the powers given to the presiding officer with respect to the initial decision. On the Commission's own initiative or on motion, the Commission may remand the matter to the presiding officer for any further action necessary for a proper decision.

(b) The scope of the issues at the public hearing is the same as the scope of the issues on appeal at the public hearing unless the Commission specifies otherwise.

(c) As soon as possible after the filing of briefs and the presentation of any oral argument, the Commission will issue a final decision in the proceeding, which meets the requirements established in § 1502.40 (b) and (c).

(d) The Commission may adopt the initial decision as the final decision.

(e) Notice of the Commission's decision will be published in the Federal Register. The Commission may also publish the decision when it is of widespread interest.