(a) As appropriate, the presiding administrative law judge (ALJ) shall prepare a proposal for decision containing separately stated findings of fact and conclusions of law.(b) The ALJ may amend the proposal for decision pursuant to exceptions, replies to exceptions, and briefs.(c) The ALJ shall submit the proposal for decision to the SBEC, with a copy to each party.(d) Except as otherwise provided or prohibited by these rules and other applicable law, the SBEC's general counsel may issue procedural directives relating to matters that arise after the submission of the proposal for decision to the SBEC and that are not delegated to the State Office of Administrative Hearings for action or decision.