In conducting a hearing or investigation under this chapter, the department or a person designated by the department may:

1. (1) administer oaths;
2. (2) subpoena witnesses;
3. (3) take depositions of witnesses who reside outside of this state in the manner provided for in a civil action in district court; and
4. (4) pay to those witnesses a fee and mileage for attendance as provided for a witness in a civil action in district court.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1274, Sec. 2, eff. April 1, 2005.