In investigating complaints of violations by common carriers of the laws prohibiting the giving or granting of rebates and prohibiting unjust discrimination in rates and charges, the commission may exercise the power and authority to compel the shipper or consignee, or any officer, agent, or employee of a common carrier to give evidence relating to such complaints. Before any such person shall be compelled to give evidence relating to such complaints, the commission shall make an order that such witness is required by the commission to testify and that he will be exempt thereafter from indictment or prosecution for any transaction about which he is compelled to testify. When such order is made, the witness shall be compelled to give evidence touching such complaints, and he shall be forever free from indictment or prosecution in any court touching the matters about which he is compelled to testify.
History. Ga. L. 1896, p. 57, § 1; Civil Code 1910, § 2636; Ga. L. 1922, p. 143, § 5; Code 1933, § 93-506.
Cross references.
Prohibition against compelled self-incrimination, Ga. Const. 1983, Art. I, Sec. I, Para. XVI.
General prohibition against unjust discrimination in freight-transportation rates by common carriers, § 46-9-52 .
Structure Georgia Code
Title 46 - Public Utilities and Public Transportation
Chapter 2 - Public Service Commission
Article 3 - Investigations and Hearings
§ 46-2-50. Conducting of Hearings and Investigations Generally
§ 46-2-52. Keeping of Records of Proceedings on Formal Investigations; Transcribing of Testimony
§ 46-2-54. Power to Issue Subpoenas; Payments to Witnesses; Failure or Refusal to Obey Subpoenas
§ 46-2-56. Compelling Witnesses to Testify Against Common Carriers or Any Other Person in Court