1. (a) With the prior approval of the Legislative Policy Committee, a standing committee, in carrying out any of its functions or powers, may:

   1. (1) issue subpoenas;
   2. (2) compel the attendance of witnesses;
   3. (3) compel the production of any papers, books, accounts, documents, and testimony;
   4. (4) administer oaths; and
   5. (5) cause the depositions of witnesses, who reside in or outside of the State, to be taken in the manner provided by law for taking depositions in a civil case.

2. (b)

   1. (1) If a person fails to comply with a subpoena issued under this section or fails to testify on any matter on which the person lawfully may be interrogated, on petition of a member of the standing committee, a circuit court may pass an order directing compliance with the subpoena or compelling testimony and may enforce the order by proceedings for contempt.
   2. (2) Venue and procedures for a proceeding under paragraph (1) of this subsection to direct compliance with a subpoena or compel testimony are as provided in § 2-1803 of this title.
3. (c) False swearing by a witness before a standing committee is perjury.

Added by Acts 1984, c. 284, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 1984. Amended by Acts 2007, c. 546, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2007.

Formerly Art. 40, § 30.