Code of Maine Rules
02 - DEPARTMENT OF PROFESSIONAL AND FINANCIAL REGULATION
285 - STATE BOARD OF VETERINARY MEDICINE
Chapter 6 - ENFORCEMENT AND DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
Section 285-6-1 - Disciplinary Procedure

A. Written Complaints.

All complaints shall be in writing, and shall be filed with the Office of Licensing and Registration.

B. Other Investigations.

An investigation may be conducted based upon information other than a written complaint if such information provides prima facie evidence of a violation of 32 MRSA §§4864 or 4865-A, et seq. or if the information raises a substantial question regarding the qualifications of any applicant or licensee.

C. Member Request for Investigation.

A member of the Board may file a complaint or request an investigation, but such complaint or request shall serve to disqualify the member from participating in the disposition of the matter. That member shall be prohibited from discussing the issue with other members, except as a witness, until after final agency action.

D. Prohibited Communications.

The members shall not discuss, except with adequate notice and opportunity for all interested individuals, any specific case under investigation, or any case which may reasonably be expected to be the subject of investigation, until after final agency action has been taken, except in accordance with the complaint procedures set forth by the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation's Office of Licensing and Registration.

This rule shall not be construed to limit the members at Board meetings from discussion among themselves or with the attorney assigned to the Board. These rules shall not be construed to limit communications regarding closed matters, investigations in general, inquiries regarding the status of a specific case, or other matters not relating to issues of fact of law concerning a specific case.