6. Preliminary Categorization of the Proceeding

Rule 7.1(d) requires that an order instituting rulemaking preliminarily determine the category of the proceeding and the need for hearing. As a preliminary matter, we determine that this proceeding is "quasi-legislative," as defined in Rule 1.3(d). We anticipate that the issues in this proceeding may be resolved through a combination of workshops and formal comments, and that evidentiary hearings will not be necessary. Any person who objects to the preliminary categorization of this rulemaking as "quasi-legislative" or to the preliminary hearing determination, shall state the objections in their prehearing conference statements, no later than April 11, 2008, as discussed above. After considering the comments on the preliminary scoping memo, the assigned Commissioner will issue a scoping ruling making a final category determination; this final determination is subject to appeal as specified in Rule 7.6(a).