Investigations and subpoenas.

(1) The commissioner may, for the purpose of discovering a violation of this chapter or implementing rules or orders issued under this chapter, do any of the following:

(1) (a) Make such public or private investigations within or outside of this state as the commissioner deems necessary to determine whether any person has violated or is about to violate this chapter, or implementing rules or orders issued under this chapter, or to aid in the enforcement of this chapter, or in the prescribing of rules and forms under this chapter.

(1) (b) Require or permit any person to file a statement in writing, under oath or otherwise as the commissioner or attorney general determines, as to all the facts and circumstances concerning the matter being investigated.

(1) (c) Notwithstanding chapter 22, keep confidential the information obtained in the course of an investigation. However, if the commissioner determines that it is necessary or appropriate in the public interest or for the protection of the public, the commissioner may share information with other administrators, regulatory authorities, or governmental agencies, or may publish information concerning a violation of this chapter, or implementing rules or orders issued under this chapter.

(1) (d) Investigate a cemetery and examine the books, accounts, papers, correspondence, memoranda, purchase agreements, files, or other documents or records of the cemetery.

(1) (e) Administer oaths and affirmations, subpoena witnesses, compel their attendance, take evidence, and require the production of any books, accounts, papers, correspondence, memoranda, purchase agreements, files, or other documents or records which the commissioner deems relevant or material to any investigation or proceeding under this chapter and implement rules, all of which may be enforced under chapter 17A.

(1) (f) Apply to the district court for an order requiring a person’s appearance before the commissioner or attorney general, or a designee of either or both, in cases where the person has refused to obey a subpoena issued by the commissioner or attorney general. The person may also be required to produce documentary evidence germane to the subject of the investigation. Failure to obey a court order under this subsection constitutes contempt of court.

(2) The commissioner may issue and bring an action in district court to enforce subpoenas within this state at the request of an agency or administrator of another state, if the activity constituting an alleged violation for which the information is sought would be a violation of this chapter had the activity occurred in this state.

2005 Acts, ch 128, §10