(a) Addressee. Requests for oral argument should be addressed to the Chief, Section of Administration, Office of Proceedings, Surface Transportation Board, Washington, DC 20423-0001.

(b) Who may request? Any party may submit a written request for oral argument and state the reasons for the request. No replies from other parties to the request shall be made.

(c) When to file a request. Requests for oral argument should be filed within 20 days after the date of service of the decision, order, or requirement being appealed, unless the Board by order prescribes a different time period.

(d) Granting of request. The Board will rule upon requests by decision, and the granting of requests is entirely at the discretion of the Board.

Proponents of a rule or order will be heard first, and opponents will be heard second. One counsel only will usually be heard for each of the opposing interests, unless additional presentations are specifically authorized.