(a) Notwithstanding the existence or pursuit of any other remedy, the Commissioner of Children and Families may, in the manner provided by law and upon the advice of the Attorney General, conduct an investigation into any reported violation of § 17a-145, 17a-149 or 17a-152 and maintain an action in the name of the state for injunction or other process against any person or governmental unit to restrain or prevent the caring for, boarding or placing of a child in violation of said sections.

(b) If the Commissioner of Children and Families has reason to believe that a violation has occurred for which a civil penalty is authorized pursuant to subsection (d) of this section, the commissioner may notify the alleged violator by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by personal service. Such notice shall include: (1) A reference to the section or sections of the general statutes alleged to have been violated; (2) a short and plain statement of the matter asserted or charged; (3) a statement of the prescribed civil penalty which may be imposed pursuant to subsection (d) of this section; and (4) a statement of the alleged violator’s right to request a hearing and requirement that any such request be submitted, in writing, to the commissioner not later than thirty days after notice is mailed or given by personal service pursuant to this subsection.

(c) Not later than thirty days after receipt of a request for hearing made pursuant to subsection (b) of this section, the commissioner shall hold such hearing in accordance with the provisions of chapter 54. If (1) after holding such hearing, the commissioner finds that a violation of § 17a-145, 17a-149 or 17a-152 has occurred, (2) the alleged violator does not request a hearing, or (3) the alleged violator requests a hearing but does not appear at such hearing, the commissioner may order the imposition of a civil penalty pursuant to subsection (d) of this section. The commissioner shall send a copy of any order issued pursuant to this subsection by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the person or entity named in such order.

(d) Any person or entity which violates any provision of § 17a-145, § 17a-149 or § 17a-152 shall be fined not more than one hundred dollars.