Section 2605.230  Ex Parte Communication

a)         Once appointed and/or retained, the Hearing Officer shall not communicate directly or indirectly with any party or any person interested in the outcome of the proceeding, with respect to the merits of any case not concluded, except upon notice and opportunity for all parties to participate. [5 ILCS 100/10-60]

b)         The Hearing Officer may impose and enforce sanctions against a party who violates this Section.