(a) Types of action. At the conclusion of the proceeding, the ALJ will issue one of the following as specified in the referral issued by the Appeals Board or other Departmental entity making the referral:

(1) Proposed findings of fact on the issues presented at the hearing;

(2) A recommended decision that includes findings of fact and conclusions of law; or

(3) A decision that will be final for the Department unless a notice of appeal is filed.

(b) Transmittal of record. If the ALJ issues proposed findings of fact or a recommended decision, the ALJ will transmit the entire record of the proceeding, including the hearing transcript, to the Appeals Board or other Departmental entity making the referral.

(c) Exceptions and comments. The parties will have 30 days from service of any proposed findings of fact or a recommended decision to file exceptions or comments with the Appeals Board or other Departmental entity making the referral.

(d) Final decision. If the ALJ issues a final decision that may be appealed to an Appeals Board or other Departmental entity, the ALJ will advise the parties at the conclusion of the decision of their right to file an appeal.