(a) Whenever an application is made to renew a license or for a new license for an activity of a continuing nature, the activity does not become illegal until the application has been finally denied by the agency.
(b) Whenever an agency proposes to revoke, suspend, annul or withdraw a license, such action shall not be effective until a final order is issued, except when the public health, safety or welfare clearly requires emergency action and the agency's order so states.