In addition to all other powers and duties that an investigative entity is given in this article, the investigative entity may:

(1) have access to facilities for the purpose of conducting investigations, as otherwise permitted by law;

(2) request and receive written statements, documents, exhibits, and other items pertinent to an investigation including, but not limited to, hospital records of a vulnerable adult which the hospital is authorized to release upon written request of the investigative entity without obtaining patient authorization;

(3) issue, through its director, administrative subpoenas for the purpose of gathering information and documents;

(4) institute proceedings in a court of competent jurisdiction to seek relief necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter;

(5) require all persons, including family members of a vulnerable adult and facility staff members, to cooperate with the investigative entity in carrying out its duties under this chapter including, but not limited to, conducting investigations and providing protective services;

(6) require all officials, agencies, departments, and political subdivisions of the State to assist and cooperate within their jurisdictional power with the court and the investigative entity in furthering the purposes of this chapter;

(7) conduct studies and compile data regarding abuse, neglect, and exploitation;

(8) issue reports and recommendations.

HISTORY: 1993 Act No. 110, Section 1, eff three months after June 11, 1993; 2006 Act No. 301, Section 4, eff May 23, 2006.