Laws: Cases and Codes : U.S. Code : Title 7 : Section 7108


   
U.S. Code as of: 01/03/05
Section 7108. Investigations and power to subpoena

    (a) Investigations
      The Secretary may make such investigations as the Secretary
    considers necessary - 
        (1) for the effective administration of this chapter; or
        (2) to determine whether any person subject to this chapter has
      engaged, or is about to engage, in any action that constitutes or
      will constitute a violation of this chapter, or of any order or
      regulation issued under this chapter.
    (b) Subpoenas, oaths, and affirmations
      For the purpose of any investigation under subsection (a) of this
    section, the Secretary may administer oaths and affirmations,
    subpoena witnesses, compel the attendance of witnesses, take
    evidence, and require the production of any records that are
    relevant to the inquiry. The attendance of witnesses and the
    production of any such records may be required from any place in
    the United States.
    (c) Aid of courts
      In the case of contumacy by, or refusal to obey a subpoena issued
    to, any person, the Secretary may invoke the aid of any court of
    the United States within the jurisdiction of which the
    investigation or proceeding is carried on, or where the person
    resides or carries on business, in order to require the attendance
    and testimony of the person or the production of records. The court
    may issue an order requiring the person to appear before the
    Secretary to produce records or to give testimony regarding the
    matter under investigation.
    (d) Contempt
      Any failure to obey the order of the court may be punished by the
    court as a contempt of the court.
    (e) Process
      Process in any case under this section may be served in the
    judicial district in which the person resides or carries on
    business or wherever the person may be found.



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