§ 42-16.1-13. Investigative powers of the fraud prevention unit. The unit is authorized to investigate allegations of workers' compensation fraud and abuse. In furtherance of any investigation, the unit has the power to:

(1) Administrative subpoena. The unit may request, through an administrative subpoena, the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of books, records, and other evidence relevant to an investigation. The subpoena shall specify the time, date, and place where the witness is to respond. Within twenty (20) days after the service of the subpoena or at anytime before the return date specified in the subpoena, whichever period is shorter, the person served may file in a state superior court and serve upon the unit and the attorney general a civil petition for an order of the court modifying or setting aside the subpoena. The petition shall specify each ground upon which the petitioner is seeking relief. If a person neglects or refuses to comply with any request to provide testimony or produce books, records, and other evidence relevant to an investigation, the attorney general may petition the superior court for an order compelling the person to answer the request. Books, records, and other evidence obtained through an administrative subpoena that are not used in a court proceeding shall be destroyed as soon as practicable.

(2) Service of process. Unit investigators have the authority to serve criminal and civil process.

History of Section. (P.L. 1999, ch. 31, art. 8, § 4; P.L. 1999, ch. 216, § 11; P.L. 1999, ch. 384, § 11.)