All proceedings provide the opportunity to participate either as a party, or as a member of the public. How a person participates in a proceeding depends on that person's interest in the issues and outcome of the case. Anyone may participate in a proceeding as a member of the public to express a personal opinion on the case. More information about how to do so appears in the section below called Public Participation. A person participates as party to protect or advance a substantial interest that may be affected by the Commission's decision on a proposal. A party may also participate to offer a particular perspective that will promote the proper disposition of the issues. To become a party a person must either: 1. Initiate a proceeding by application, petition, or complaint, or 2. Intervene in an existing proceeding. For all parties, participation must occur in a formal trial-type hearing process.
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