(a) Suspension shall be for a temporary period pending the completion of an investigation and any ensuing legal proceedings, unless sooner terminated by the suspending and debarring official or as provided in this section.

(b) If legal proceedings are not initiated within 12 months after the date of the suspension notice, the suspension shall be terminated unless an office of a U.S. Assistant Attorney General, U.S. Attorney, or other responsible prosecuting official requests its extension, in which case it may be extended for an additional 6 months. In no event may a suspension extend beyond 18 months, unless legal proceedings have been initiated within that period.

(c) The suspending and debarring official shall notify the Department of Justice or other responsible prosecuting official of the proposed termination of the suspension, at least 30 days before the 12-month period expires, to give that official an opportunity to request an extension on the Government's behalf.