1.__Disciplinary proceedings and sanctions.__The board, on its own motion or upon receipt of a written complaint filed with the board, shall investigate a complaint regarding noncompliance with or violation of this chapter or of rules adopted by the board.

The board shall notify a licensee under this chapter of the content of a complaint filed against the licensee as soon as possible but no later than 60 days from receipt of the complaint.__The licensee shall respond within 30 days.__If the licensee's response to the complaint satisfies the board that the complaint does not merit further investigation or action, the matter may be dismissed, with notice of the dismissal to the complainant, if any.

If, in the opinion of the board, the factual basis of the complaint is or may be true and the complaint is of sufficient gravity to warrant further action, the board may request an informal conference with the licensee. The board shall provide the licensee with adequate notice of the conference and of the issues to be discussed. The conference must be conducted in executive session of the board, pursuant to Title 1, section 405, unless otherwise requested by the licensee. Statements made at the conference may not be introduced at a subsequent formal hearing unless all parties consent.

If the board finds that the factual basis of the complaint is true and is of sufficient gravity to warrant further action, it may take any of the following actions it considers appropriate:

A.__With the consent of the licensee, enter into a consent agreement that fixes the period and terms of probation best adapted to protect the public health and safety and to rehabilitate or educate the licensee. A consent agreement may be used to terminate a complaint investigation if entered into by the board, the licensee and the Office of the Attorney General; or

B.__In consideration for acceptance of a voluntary surrender of the license if a consent agreement is signed by the board, the licensee and the Office of the Attorney General, negotiate stipulations, including terms and conditions for reinstatement, that ensure protection of the public health and safety and that serve to rehabilitate or educate the licensee.

If the board concludes that modification or nonrenewal of the license is in order, the board shall hold an adjudicatory hearing