(a) Neutral hearing site. SOAH will designate a neutral hearing site in accordance with applicable law.

(b) Factors judge may consider. In designating a hearing site not in Austin, the judge may consider the following factors:

1. the amount in controversy;
2. the number of persons in the geographical region affected by the outcome of the hearing;
3. the estimated length of the hearing;
4. the availability of hearing facilities;
5. the costs to and preferences of the parties;
6. the location of witnesses;
7. the availability and feasibility of videoconference technology as a means to reduce costs to SOAH and the parties;
8. legislative restrictions on travel; and
9. any applicable law or other factor relevant to the fair and expeditious resolution of the case.

Source Note: The provisions of this §155.403 adopted to be effective November 26, 2008, 33 TexReg 9451.