§ 42-16.1-13. Investigative powers of the fraud prevention unit.
The unit is authorized to investigate allegations of workers’ compensation fraud and abuse. In furtherance of any investigation, the unit has the power to:
(1) Administrative subpoena. The unit may request, through an administrative subpoena, the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of books, records, and other evidence relevant to an investigation. The subpoena shall specify the time, date, and place where the witness is to respond. Within twenty (20) days after the service of the subpoena or at anytime before the return date specified in the subpoena, whichever period is shorter, the person served may file in a state superior court and serve upon the unit and the attorney general a civil petition for an order of the court modifying or setting aside the subpoena. The petition shall specify each ground upon which the petitioner is seeking relief. If a person neglects or refuses to comply with any request to provide testimony or produce books, records, and other evidence relevant to an investigation, the attorney general may petition the superior court for an order compelling the person to answer the request. Books, records, and other evidence obtained through an administrative subpoena that are not used in a court proceeding shall be destroyed as soon as practicable.
(2) Service of process. Unit investigators have the authority to serve criminal and civil process.
History of Section.P.L. 1999, ch. 31, art. 8, § 4; P.L. 1999, ch. 216, § 11; P.L. 1999, ch. 384, § 11.
Structure Rhode Island General Laws
Title 42 - State Affairs and Government
Chapter 42-16.1 - Department of Labor and Training
Section 42-16.1-1. - Establishment of department — Director.
Section 42-16.1-2. - Functions of director.
Section 42-16.1-3. - Transfer of functions from the department of labor.
Section 42-16.1-4. - Transfer of functions from the department of employment and training.
Section 42-16.1-5. - Education unit — Establishment.
Section 42-16.1-6. - Board of review — Composition.
Section 42-16.1-7. - Appointment of board members.
Section 42-16.1-8. - Filling of vacancies on board.
Section 42-16.1-9. - Organization of board — Restrictions on members — Removal.
Section 42-16.1-10. - Compensation of board of review.
Section 42-16.1-11. - Legal counsel to board of review.
Section 42-16.1-12. - Fraud prevention unit — Appointment — Duties — Qualifications.
Section 42-16.1-13. - Investigative powers of the fraud prevention unit.
Section 42-16.1-14. - Disclosure of information to the fraud prevention unit.
Section 42-16.1-15. - Fraud prevention unit — Evidence confidentiality.
Section 42-16.1-16. - Immunity.
Section 42-16.1-17. - Severability.