All hearings conducted under the provisions of this chapter shall be conducted by a panel of at least two members of the board. One of the members will serve as the presiding officer.

The panel may question witnesses called to testify at the hearing to develop any facts deemed necessary to render a fair and impartial decision.

Observers may be present at the hearing if prior approval has been granted by the facility superintendent and the inmate who is the subject of the hearing does not object. However, no family members, friends, relatives, or interested parties may be present. The board will accept and consider written statements submitted by individuals expressly excluded from hearings. Exclusion of observers other than those expressly excluded herein shall be by cause articulated on the record by the presiding officer of the board panel conducting the hearing.