(A) The accountancy board may investigate whether a person has violated any provision of this chapter or rule adopted under it before commencing a disciplinary proceeding pursuant to section 4701.16 of the Revised Code or taking legal action pursuant to section 4701.18 of the Revised Code. An investigation under this section is not subject to Chapter 119. of the Revised Code. The board may appoint a committee of board members or staff employed by the board to conduct an investigation. notwithstanding any statute or rule to the contrary, a board member who participates in an investigation may participate actively in any hearing or proceeding to the same extent as a board member who did not participate in the investigation.

(B) During an investigation, the board may administer oaths, order the taking of depositions, issue subpoenas, compel the attendance and testimony of a person at a deposition, and compel the production of any form of documentary evidence or record. Subpoenas and orders to compel under this section may be served by a designee of the board or by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the residence or place of business of the individual, professional association, firm, corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, limited liability company, or other business organization named in the subpoena or order.

(C)

(1) Any witness who appears in response to a subpoena of the board may request, and shall receive within a reasonable time after making the request, the fees and mileage provided for under section 119.094 of the Revised Code.

(2) If a person fails to comply with a subpoena or order issued by the board under this section, the board may apply to the Franklin county court of common pleas for an order compelling compliance with the board's subpoena or order. Upon application by the board and upon evidence of the person's failure to comply, the court shall compel the appearance of the persons or the production of the documents named in the board's subpoena or order in accordance with the Rules of Civil Procedure. The court also may issue any contempt citation and sanction the court deems appropriate.

(D) The investigative proceedings of the board under this section are not a public record under section 149.43 of the Revised Code, are confidential, and are not subject to discovery in any civil or administrative action or proceeding.

Effective Date: 03-30-1999; 2008 HB525 07-01-2009 .