There are two ways to participate in a public hearing: (1) An individual may become a party to the case by following the Rules of Practice and Procedure Before the Commission; (2) A member of the public who wishes to make a statement of position without becoming a party to a case may participate by filing an "appearance". To file an appearance, an individual must attend the hearing, and, prior to the start of the hearing, advise the presiding administrative law judge of his or her wish to make a statement of position. The presiding officer will call for public comments at an appropriate time.