A. The board on its own motion, or on receiving a complaint or other information suggesting violations of this chapter or board rules, may conduct or direct an authorized committee to conduct an initial analysis which shall be completed before the board may open an investigation file pursuant to subsection B to determine whether reasonable cause exists to believe that there is a violation of this chapter or board rules. The board or its authorized committee may designate one or more persons of appropriate competence to assist the board in its initial analysis.

B. After an initial analysis if the board finds reasonable cause to believe there is a violation of this chapter or board rules, the board may direct that an investigation file be opened to determine if there is reasonable cause to institute disciplinary proceedings under this chapter. An investigation is not a prerequisite to disciplinary proceedings under this chapter if reasonable cause can be determined without an investigation.

C. To assist in the investigation, the board or an authorized committee may designate one or more persons of appropriate competence to be investigators. When completing an investigation, the investigator shall file a report with the board or an authorized committee. Based on the investigator’s report, the board or authorized committee may request further investigation, hold voluntary investigative interviews, make appropriate recommendations for dismissal, letters of concern, consent orders or other disciplinary actions.

D. If the board does not find reasonable cause to believe that there is a violation of this chapter or board rules, the board shall close the investigation file.