
From the U.S. Code Online via GPO Access
[wais.access.gpo.gov]
[Laws in effect as of January 2, 2001]
[Document not affected by Public Laws enacted between
  January 2, 2001 and January 28, 2002]
[CITE: 7USC7420]

 
                          TITLE 7--AGRICULTURE
 
                   CHAPTER 101--AGRICULTURAL PROMOTION
 
     SUBCHAPTER II--ISSUANCE OF ORDERS FOR PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND 
        INFORMATION ACTIVITIES REGARDING AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES
 
Sec. 7420. 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 subchapter; or
        (2) to determine whether any person subject to this subchapter 
    has engaged, or is about to engage, in any action that constitutes 
    or will constitute a violation of this subchapter or any order or 
    regulation issued under this subchapter.

(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 or documents that are relevant to 
the inquiry. The attendance of witnesses and the production of records 
or documents 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 or documents. The court may issue an order 
requiring the person to appear before the Secretary to produce records 
or documents 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.

(Pub. L. 104-127, title V, Sec. 521, Apr. 4, 1996, 110 Stat. 1047.)
