(a) The commission may authorize oral argument before it in any proceeding on its own motion or at the request of a party. In general, oral argument before the commission will be allowed only in unusual cases, where the issues are not adequately developed in testimony and written pleadings.

(b) A party requesting oral argument before the commission may do so in any brief to the commission or in a separate motion filed no later than the deadline for the final authorized round of briefs. Any such request shall include an explanation of why the party believes oral argument is warranted.

(c) The issues that may be raised on oral argument, and the parties authorized to argue, shall be determined by the commission. The time allowed each party shall be determined by the secretary.

(d) This section does not apply to oral argument before a presiding officer, which shall be allowed to the extent and in the manner permitted by the presiding officer in any proceeding.