(a) In a contested case, if a majority of the state agency officials who are to render a final decision have not heard the case or read the record, the decision, if adverse to a party other than the agency itself, may not be made until:
(1) a proposal for decision is served on each party; and
(2) an opportunity is given to each adversely affected party to file exceptions and present briefs to the officials who are to render the decision.
(b) If a party files exceptions or presents briefs, an opportunity shall be given to each other party to file replies to the exceptions or briefs.

(c) A proposal for decision must contain a statement of the reasons for the proposed decision and of each finding of fact and conclusion of law necessary to the proposed decision. The statement must be prepared by the individual who conducted the hearing or by one who has read the record.
(d) A proposal for decision may be amended in response to exceptions, replies, or briefs submitted by the parties without again being served on the parties.
(e) The parties by written stipulation may waive compliance with this section.