Sec. 55.137.  ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTY.  (a)  The commission may impose an administrative penalty against a person who owns or operates an automated dial announcing device in violation of this subchapter or a commission rule or order.
(b)  The penalty for a violation may be in an amount not to exceed $1,000 for each day or portion of a day during which the device operates in violation of this subchapter or a commission rule or order.
(c)  The administrative penalty is civil in nature and is in addition to any other penalty provided by law.
(d)  The commission by rule shall prescribe the procedures for assessing an administrative penalty under this section.  The procedures must require proper notice and hearing in accordance with Chapter 2001, Government Code.
(e)  A person may appeal the final order of the commission under Chapter 2001, Government Code.  The substantial evidence rule applies on appeal.
(f)  The proceeds of administrative penalties collected under this section shall be deposited to the credit of the commission.  The commission shall use the proceeds to enforce this subchapter.
Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 166, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 62, Sec. 18.05(g), eff. Sept. 1, 1999.