In this section, the term “Federal law enforcement officer” includes a Federal law enforcement officer (as defined in section 115(c) of title 18).

Any Federal law enforcement officer shall have the authority to conduct an investigation relating to an alleged violation of this Act occurring within the jurisdiction of the United States.

The findings of an investigation of an alleged violation of section 1159 of title 18 by any Federal department or agency under paragraph (1)(A) shall be submitted, as appropriate, to—

The Board may refer an alleged violation of section 1159 of title 18 to any Federal law enforcement officer for appropriate investigation.

(A) In general The Board may refer an alleged violation of section 1159 of title 18 to any Federal law enforcement officer for appropriate investigation.

(B) Referral not required A Federal law enforcement officer may investigate an alleged violation of section 1159 of that title regardless of whether the Federal law enforcement officer receives a referral under subparagraph (A).

The findings of an investigation of an alleged violation of section 1159 of title 18 by any Federal department or agency under paragraph (1)(A) shall be submitted, as appropriate, to—

(A) a Federal or State prosecuting authority; or

(B) the Board.

On receiving the findings of an investigation under paragraph (2), the Board may—

(A) recommend to the Attorney General that criminal proceedings be initiated under section 1159 of title 18; and

(B) provide such support to the Attorney General relating to the criminal proceedings as the Attorney General determines to be appropriate.

In lieu of, or in addition to, any criminal proceeding under subsection (c), the Board may recommend that the Attorney General initiate a civil action under section 305e of this title.

(Aug. 27, 1935, ch. 748, § 5, as added Pub. L. 101–644, title I, § 103, Nov. 29, 1990, 104 Stat. 4662; amended Pub. L. 111–211, title I, § 102(a), July 29, 2010, 124 Stat. 2258.)