Department-authorized private rebuilt inspection providers; investigations; examinations; proceedings; subpoenas and other process; witnesses; oaths; rules.

(1) The department may conduct investigations and examinations of department-authorized private rebuilt inspection providers as it deems necessary to determine whether a person is violating or has violated this chapter or a contract entered into pursuant to this chapter or to assist with the enforcement of this chapter.

(2) For purposes of any investigation or examination conducted pursuant to this section, the department may exercise the power of subpoena and the powers to administer oaths or affirmations, to examine witnesses, to require affidavits, to take depositions, and to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of books, papers, documents, records, and other evidence. A designated agent of the department may serve a subpoena relating to an investigation or examination.

(3) If a person refuses to testify; to produce books, papers, documents, or records; or to otherwise obey a subpoena or subpoena duces tecum issued under subsection (2), the department may petition a court of competent jurisdiction in the county where the person’s residence or principal place of business is located, upon which the court must issue an order requiring such person to obey the subpoena or show cause for failing to obey the subpoena. Unless the person shows sufficient cause for failing to obey the subpoena, the court shall direct the person to obey the subpoena. Failure to comply with such order is contempt of court.

(4) For the purpose of any investigation, examination, or proceeding initiated by the department under this chapter, the department may designate agents to serve subpoenas and other process and to administer oaths or affirmations.

(5) Information received by the department as a result of an investigation or examination conducted pursuant to this section is confidential and exempt from s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution until the investigation or examination ceases to be active or administrative action taken by the department has concluded or been made part of a hearing or court proceeding. The department may release information that is made confidential and exempt under this subsection in furtherance of its official duties and responsibilities or, if released to another governmental agency, in the furtherance of that agency’s official duties and responsibilities.

(6) The department may adopt rules to administer this section.