§ 2717. — Investigations by Secretary; oaths and affirmations; subpenas; judicial enforcement; contempt proceedings; service of process.
[Laws in effect as of January 7, 2003]
[Document not affected by Public Laws enacted between
January 7, 2003 and December 19, 2003]
[CITE: 7USC2717]
TITLE 7--AGRICULTURE
CHAPTER 60--EGG RESEARCH AND CONSUMER INFORMATION
Sec. 2717. Investigations by Secretary; oaths and affirmations;
subpenas; judicial enforcement; contempt proceedings; service of
process
The Secretary may make such investigations as he deems necessary for
the effective carrying out of his responsibilities under this chapter or
to determine whether an egg producer, processor, or other seller of
commercial eggs or any other person has engaged or is about to engage in
any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of
any provisions of this chapter, or of any order, or rule or regulation
issued under this chapter. For the purpose of such investigation, the
Secretary is empowered to administer oaths and affirmations, subpena
witnesses, compel their attendance, take evidence, and require the
production of any books, papers, and documents which are relevant to the
inquiry. Such attendance of witnesses and the production of any such
records may be required from any place in the United States. In case of
contumacy by, or refusal to obey a subpena to, any person, including an
egg producer, the Secretary may invoke the aid of any court of the
United States within the jurisdiction of which such investigation or
proceeding is carried on, or where such person resides or carries on
business, in requiring the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the
production of books, papers, and documents; and such court may issue an
order requiring such person to appear before the Secretary, there to
produce records, if so ordered, or to give testimony touching the matter
under investigation. Any failure to obey such order of the court may be
punished by such court as a contempt thereof. All process in any such
case may be served in the judicial district whereof such person is an
inhabitant or wherever he may be found.
(Pub. L. 93-428, Sec. 18, Oct. 1, 1974, 88 Stat. 1178.)
