(a) Except as described in paragraph (b) of this section, the administrative law judge will issue a decision within forty (40) days after the submission of the Bureau of Enforcement's reply.

(b) If oral hearing or argument is conducted or additional information is required, then the decision will be issued within forty (40) days after the oral proceeding or the deadline for submission of additional information, whichever is later.

(c) The decision of the administrative law judge will be final, unless, within twenty-two (22) days from the date of service of the decision, either party files exceptions under § 502.227(a)(1) or the Commission makes a determination to review under § 502.227(a)(3) and (d). [Rule 708.]