Investigative Authority: Subpoena and Summons

Sec. 2051.401. INVESTIGATIVE AUTHORITY: SUBPOENA AND SUMMONS. (a) The secretary of state may issue a subpoena or summons to compel: (1) the attendance and testimony of a witness; or (2) the production of: (A) a book; (B) an account; (C) a record; (D) a magnetic or electronic recording; (E) a paper; (F) a contract; (G) correspondence; or (H) any other record that the secretary determines is relevant or material to an investigation under this chapter. (b) If the secretary issues a subpoena or summons under Subsection (a), the secretary, or an officer designated by the secretary, may: (1) administer an oath; (2) examine a witness; and (3) receive evidence. (c) Information and evidence obtained by the secretary under this section is: (1) confidential and not open to public inspection, except by a court order; and (2) exempt from disclosure under Chapter 552, Government Code. Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.