SECTION 55-399. Investigations  

A. The Board may:

1. Make necessary public or private investigations within or outside this Commonwealth to determine whether any person has violated or is about to violate any provision of this chapter or any rule, regulation, or order issued hereunder, or to aid in the enforcement of this chapter in prescribing rules, regulations and forms hereunder;

2. Require or permit any person to file a statement in writing, under oath or otherwise as the Board determines, as to all facts and circumstances concerning the matter to be investigated.

B. For the purpose of any investigation or proceeding under the chapter, the Board may administer oaths or affirmations, and upon such motion or upon request of any party, may subpoena witnesses, compel their attendance, take evidence, and require the production of any matter which is relevant to the investigation, including the existence, description, nature, custody, condition, and location of any books, documents or other tangible things and the identity and location of persons having knowledge of relevant facts, or any other matter reasonably calculated to lead to the discovery of material evidence.

C. Any proceeding or hearing of the Board under this chapter, wherein witnesses are subpoenaed and their attendance required for evidence to be taken, or any matter is to be produced to ascertain material evidence, shall take place within the County of Henrico and such proceeding shall be held before the Board sitting in regular session, but not less frequently than monthly.

D. Upon failure to obey a subpoena or to answer questions propounded by the Board, and upon reasonable notice to all persons affected thereby, the Board may apply to the Circuit Court of the County of Henrico for an order compelling compliance.

E. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, all proceedings under this chapter shall be in accordance with the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq.).

1981, c. 462; 2009, c. 2.2-4000 ; 2011, c. 2.2-4000 .