Sec. 151.104. INVESTIGATIONS. (a) The commissioner may conduct investigations in or outside this state and the United States as the commissioner considers necessary or appropriate to administer and enforce this chapter, including investigations to:

(1) determine whether to approve an application for a license or a request for approval or exemption filed under this chapter or a rule adopted or order issued under this chapter;

(2) determine whether a person has violated or is likely to violate this chapter or a rule adopted or order issued under this chapter;

(3) determine whether a license or authorized delegate designation should be revoked or suspended;

(4) otherwise aid in the enforcement of this chapter or a rule adopted or order issued under this chapter; and

(5) aid in the adoption of rules or issuance of orders under this chapter.

(b) For purposes of an investigation, examination, or other proceeding under this chapter, the commissioner may administer or cause to be administered oaths, subpoena witnesses, compel the attendance of witnesses, take evidence, and require the production of any document that the commissioner determines to be relevant to the inquiry.

(c) If a person refuses to obey a subpoena, a district court of Travis County, on application by the commissioner, may issue an order requiring the person to appear before the commissioner and produce documents or give evidence regarding the matter under investigation.

(d) The commissioner may employ a person or request the attorney general, the Department of Public Safety, or any other state, federal, or local law enforcement agency to assist in enforcing this chapter.

(e) The commissioner may recover the reasonable costs incurred in connection with an investigation conducted under this chapter from the person that is the subject of the investigation.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 1099 (H.B. 2218), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.

Amended by:

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 988 (H.B. 2134), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2013.