5-7-212. Audit of lobbying reports. (1) The commissioner may audit the reports filed under 5-7-208 and shall investigate any irregularities and report any apparent violations of this chapter to the attorneys having authority to prosecute. The lobbyist is required to provide and the principal is required to obtain and keep for a period of 3 years from the date of filing all records supporting the reports filed under 5-7-208.

(2) All records under subsection (1) must be open to inspection on request of the commissioner or an attorney having authority to prosecute violations of this chapter. The commissioner and the attorneys are given the power to:

(a) subpoena and compel attendance;

(b) issue enforceable civil investigative demands;

(c) take evidence; and

(d) require the production of any books, correspondence, memoranda, bank account statements, or other records which are relevant or material for the purpose of conducting any investigation pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.