Now, let's think a bit about what it means to say that the formal rulemaking process involves a "trial-type" process. Consider the following statements and decide which most correctly describes the formal rulemaking process. The parties to the rulemaking must be allowed to present evidence. Correct description of the formal process The formal rulemaking differs from a judicial proceeding because there is no prohibition against ex parte contacts between interested parties and agency decision makers. The formal rulemaking process is regarded as formal because it is conducted like a trial. The parties to the rulemaking are usually allowed to cross-examine opposing witnesses