(a) Any person who knowingly, or as a result either of gross negligence or of a failure to make a reasonable effort to be informed of the pertinent facts, violates any provision of this part, or the rules and regulations made and promulgated thereunder, commits a Class C misdemeanor. However, no prosecution under this part shall be instituted without the person first having been given an opportunity to appear before the commissioner or the commissioner’s duly authorized agent, to introduce evidence either in person or by agent or attorney at a private hearing.(b) If, after the hearing, or without a hearing in the event the person or the person’s agent or attorney fails or refuses to appear, the commissioner is of the opinion that the evidence warrants prosecution, the commissioner shall proceed according to legal procedures in the state, or, if the commissioner believes the public interest will be adequately served by a written notice or warning, the commissioner may direct to the alleged violator a suitable written notice or warning.(c) After judgment by the court in any case arising under this part, the commissioner shall publish any information pertinent to the issuance of the judgment by the court in such media as the commissioner may designate from time to time.
