(a) Pleadings. Unless right of review has been waived, any party may within 20 days after the date of issuance of the proposal for decision, file exceptions or briefs. The request shall be served on the parties and the judge, shall specify the issues to be briefed and shall set reasonable deadlines for the executive director's response and the parties replies to that response, avoiding delay of the matter to the extent practicable. Proposed findings of fact may be filed when permitted or requested by the commission. Any replies to exceptions, briefs, or proposed findings of fact shall be filed within 30 days after the date of issuance on the proposal of decision.(b) Change of filing deadlines. On his own motion or at the request of a party, the general counsel may change the deadlines to file pleadings following the proposal for decision. A party requesting a change must file a written request with the chief clerk, and must serve a copy on the general counsel, the judge, and the other parties. The request must explain that the party requesting the change has contacted the other parties, and whether the request is opposed by any party. The request must include proposed dates (preferably a range of dates) and must indicate whether the judge and the parties agree on the proposed dates.