(a) A commission mediator will receive at a minimum 40 hours of formal training in ADR procedures through a program approved by the commission's administrator. (b) SOAH mediators, employees of other agencies who are mediators, and private pro bono mediators, may be assigned to contested matters as needed. (1) Each mediator shall first have received 40 hours of Texas mediation training as prescribed by Texas law. (2) Each mediator shall have some expertise in the area of the contested matter. (3) If the mediator is a SOAH judge, that person will not also sit as the judge for the case if the contested matter goes to public hearing. If the mediator is an employee of the commission and dispute does not settle, that mediator will not have any further contact or involvement concerning the disputed matter. |