653—25.17 (272C) Settlement agreements.
	 25.17(1) A contested case may be resolved by settlement agreement. Settlement negotiations may be initiated by any party at any stage of a contested case. No party is required to participate in the settlement process. The executive director, director of legal affairs, or prosecuting attorney shall have authority to negotiate on behalf of the board.
	 25.17(2) The full board shall not be involved in negotiations until a written proposed settlement is submitted to the full board for approval, unless both parties waive this prohibition.
	 25.17(3) Consent to negotiation by the respondent during settlement negotiation constitutes a waiver of notice and opportunity to be heard pursuant to Iowa Code section 17A.17. Thereafter, the prosecuting attorney is authorized to discuss settlement with the board chairperson or designee.
	 25.17(4) Settlement negotiations shall be completed at least seven days prior to the date scheduled for hearing whenever possible.
	 25.17(5) A settlement agreement is an open record.