Section 43-20A-18. Cease and desist order

   (a) The Secretary of State may issue a cease and desist order prohibiting a person from violating the provisions of this chapter by engaging in the practice of immigration assistance without a license issued pursuant to this chapter. Such cease and desist order shall become effective immediately upon signature of the Secretary of State and proper notice pursuant to this chapter.

(b) The violation of any order issued pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section shall subject such person violating the order to further proceedings before the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of State shall be authorized to impose a civil penalty not to exceed $500.00 for each transaction constituting a violation thereof. Such civil penalty shall be in addition to any other fines and penalties subject to committing a violation pursuant to this subsection. Each day that a person practices in violation of this subsection shall constitute a separate violation.

(c) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to prohibit the Secretary of State from bringing remedies otherwise available by statute without first seeking a cease and desist order in accordance with the provisions of this Code section.

Code 1981, § 43-20A-18, enacted by Ga. L. 2008, p. 1112, § 15/HB 1055.