The commission may suspend or revoke the license of any licensee conducting a race meeting, upon the willful violation of any of the provisions of this part, or any rule or regulation promulgated by the commission or may invoke a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) per offense in lieu thereof. It is unlawful for any member of the racing commission, or any licensee under this part, directly or indirectly, to make any contribution whatsoever to any political party or to any candidate for any state, county, or municipal office, and upon proof being presented of any such prohibited contribution having been made by any licensee, the commission shall immediately and permanently revoke the license of such licensee. If any member of the racing commission violates this section, such member shall be subject to removal from office. No disciplinary action may be taken hereunder until the licensee has been presented with notice in writing specifying the time and place of a disciplinary hearing, the notice setting out in substance the nature of the accusation, and inviting the licensee to appear, with or without counsel, as the licensee may decide, the licensee being afforded an opportunity to face and examine his or her accusers, call witnesses, and testify if he or she chooses.