§ 29-3-101. GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION.

(a)

Rules.

(1)

The Commission may adopt rules of practice and procedure governing its proceedings and hearings.

(2)

The rules adopted under this subsection shall include:

(i)

The maximum number of interrogatories to be filed; and

(ii)

The time period within which interrogatories are to be answered.

(b)

Authority enumerated. In consultation with the Executive Director, the Commission may:

(1)

Investigate complaints of discrimination in the areas of employment, housing, education, public accommodation, and financing;

(2)

Undertake training and seminars in intergroup relations;

(3)

Initiate and conduct surveys, studies, and inquiries;

(4)

Except as provided in § 29-3-109 of this title, conduct public hearings;

(5)

Make recommendations to the County Executive and to the County Council;

(6)

Cooperate with other Commissions, agencies, organizations, and groups, including federal, state, and county commissions, agencies, organizations, and groups; and

(7)

Provide for conciliation and mediation services.

(c)

Hearings and orders. In accordance with this title, the Commission:

(1)

Shall hold administrative hearings; and

(2)

May:

(i)

Issue decisions and orders; and

(ii)

Bring an action in circuit court to enforce compliance with a final decision and order issued by the Commission.

(d)

Procedural powers.

(1)

(i)

The Commission may administer oaths and issue subpoenas:

1.

To compel the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of records and documents relevant and necessary for proceedings under this title; and

2.

In the administration of:

A.

Authorized surveys and studies;

B.

Hearings on patterns of discrimination; and

C.

Administrative hearings.

(ii)

A subpoena shall be forwarded for service to the sheriff or deputy sheriff of the political subdivision in which the residence of the person or the main office of the firm, association, partnership, or corporation to whom the subpoena is issued is located.

(iii)

If a subpoenaed person disobeys the subpoena, the Commission, represented by the County Attorney, shall apply to a court of competent jurisdiction for an order to enforce the subpoena.

(2)

The Commission may cause interrogatories to be issued on its own motion or on application of a party to a hearing.

(1988 Code, §§ 19-38, 19-39, 19-44) (Bill No. 11-96, § 1, 2-15-1996; Bill No. 31-00, § 2, 7-1-2004)