(a) During a hearing or investigation held under this chapter, the commission may allocate the costs of the hearing or investigation among the parties, including the commission, as is just under the circumstances. In allocating costs, the commission shall consider the regulatory cost charge paid by a person under AS 31.05.093 and may consider the results, evidence of good faith, other relevant factors, and mitigating circumstances. The costs allocated may include (1) the costs of any time devoted to the investigation or hearing by hired consultants, whether or not the consultants appear as witnesses or participants;
(2) any out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the commission in the particular proceeding; and
(3) when the investigation or hearing relates to a violation of a provision of this chapter, a regulation adopted under this chapter, or an order, stipulation, or term of a permit issued by the commission, the costs of any time devoted to the investigation or hearing by the commission staff.
(b) The commission shall provide an opportunity for any person objecting to an allocation to be heard before the allocation becomes final.
Article 2. Regulation of Operations.