1. (a)

   1. (1) Subject to this section, the Secretary shall commence proceedings under § 20-316 of this subtitle on the Secretary's own complaint or on a complaint made to the Secretary by any person.
   2. (2) If a complaint is made by any person other than the Secretary, the complaint shall be made under oath by the person who submits the complaint.

   3. (3) A complaint shall:

      1. (i) be in writing;
      2. (ii) be signed by the complainant; and
      3. (iii) state specifically the facts on which the complaint is based.
2. (b) On receipt of a complaint that alleges facts that are grounds for action under § 20-314 of this subtitle, the Secretary shall assign an employee to investigate the complaint.

3. (c)

   1. (1) On conclusion of the investigation, the employee who conducted the investigation shall determine whether there is a reasonable basis to believe that there are grounds for disciplinary action under § 20-314 of this subtitle.
   2. (2) If the employee who conducted the investigation finds a reasonable basis as provided under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Secretary shall act on the complaint as provided under § 20-316 of this subtitle.

Added by Acts 1998, c. 331, § 1, eff. July 1, 1998.