(a) Through the office of a state’s compact administrator, states shall attempt to resolve disputes or controversies by communicating with each other by telephone, telefax, or electronic mail.

(b) Failure to resolve dispute or controversy—

1. Following an unsuccessful attempt to resolve controversies or disputes arising under this compact, its by–laws or its rules as required under Rule 6.101 (a), states shall pursue 1 or more of the informal dispute resolution processes set forth in Rule 6.101 (b)(2) prior to resorting to formal dispute resolution alternatives.
2. Parties shall submit a written request to the executive director for assistance in resolving the controversy or dispute. The executive director shall provide a written response to the parties within 10 business days and may, at the executive director’s discretion, seek the assistance of legal counsel or the executive committee in resolving the dispute. The executive committee may authorize its standing committees or the executive director to assist in resolving the dispute or controversy.

(c) Interpretation of the rules—Any state may submit an informal written request to the executive director for assistance in interpreting the rules of this compact. The executive director may seek the assistance of legal counsel, the executive committee, or both, in interpreting the rules. The executive committee may authorize its standing committees to assist in interpreting the rules. Interpretations of the rules shall be issued in writing by the executive director or the executive committee and shall be circulated to all of the states.

History: Adopted November 4, 2003, effective August 1, 2004.