The Public Investors Arbitration Bar Association has accused the NASD of trying to insert last-minute changes to proposed arbitration rules that would make it easier for arbitrators to dismiss cases before they are heard. Investment News reports that the charges may result in the NASD and Securities and Exchange Commission opening the plans for further discussion. At issue is proposal that states, “Motions to decide a claim before a hearing are discouraged and may only be granted in extraordinary circumstances.” The PIABA says an amended definition of “extraordinary circumstances” would result in more routine dismissals, thus depriving small investors their chance to be heard. The original language was intended to discourage dismissals, says a PIABA spokeswoman.