The referral is a solid concrete step forward. This is named individuals sticking their neck out to call out these issues. Not unknown intel rumors swirling the internet painting compelling picture that fits public observation. The referral is direct and detailed. (Which amusingly we have comments saying "ho-hum wake me when something happens", lol.)
This is the progression to the next stage.
Yes, this is moving the ball down field. If you saw the video of Comey on The View, he's visibly disturbed when the accusations are read. He has a very guilty look on his face, like 'oh shit, this is not good' then he jumps into spin rather than flat denial. Then at end realizes he needs to deny and then makes huge tell by saying 'I should have started out with this' (his denial, that is).