7 U.S.C. § 7449 — Investigations and power to subpoena

(a) Investigations: The Secretary^* may make whatever investigations the Secretary considers necessary (1) to effectively administer this subchapter, and (2) to find out whether someone has engaged in, or is engaging in, an act that violates this subchapter or an order^*, rule, or regulation issued under it.

(b) Subpoenas, oaths, and affirmations: (1) For an investigation under (a), the Secretary may administer oaths and affirmations, subpoena witnesses, take evidence, and issue subpoenas requiring production of records relevant to the inquiry — from anywhere in the United States^*. (2) For an administrative hearing under section 7447 or 7448, the presiding officer has the same powers: administering oaths and affirmations, subpoenaing and compelling witnesses to attend, taking evidence, and requiring production of relevant records, from anywhere in the United States.

(c) Aid of courts: If someone is in contempt or refuses to obey a subpoena, the Secretary may ask a federal court — in the district where the investigation or proceeding is happening, or where the person^* lives or does business — to help enforce the subpoena. That court may order the person to comply.

(d) Contempt: A court may punish, as contempt of court, a failure to obey its order under this section.

(e) Process: Legal process may be served on a person in the judicial district where they live or do business, or wherever they can be found.

(f) Hearing site: A hearing held under section 7447 or 7448 must take place in the judicial district where the affected person lives or has their main place of business.