Investigations; examinations; proceedings; subpoenas and other process; witnesses; oaths; rules.

(1) The department may conduct investigations and examinations of any person suspected of violating or of having violated any provision of this chapter or any rule adopted or order issued under 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. Such subpoenas may be served by an authorized representative of the department.

(3) If a person refuses to testify; to produce books, papers, documents, or records; or to otherwise obey the 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 must direct the person to obey the subpoena. Failure to comply with such order constitutes 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.