White papers take a position, but they do not normally offer a developed argument. They are background. You will write a white paper in your interest area. Use graphics appropriately, and appendices as needed. The white paper is expected to build on your earlier discovery paper, as well as your legislative research, to present a focused viewpoint.
Formal processes involve elected legislators making law.
Laws require standards, rules, or regulations for implementation and enforcement. These are developed by executive branch agencies using informal processes of rule-making. Informal processes include direct public comment on proposed rules, standards, or regulations. Public comment in informal rule-making may take any form, a short letter or a technical report for example, but it is sent directly to the requesting government agency. These comments are summarized and reacted to by the agency when the final rule is issued.