26. a. The commissioner may, upon notice and hearing, levy an administrative penalty in an amount not less than $1,000 nor more than $30,000 for each violation, per contract or enrollee. Penalties imposed by the commissioner pursuant to this section may be in lieu of, or in addition to, suspension or revocation of a certificate of authority pursuant to this act. A penalty may be recovered in a summary proceeding pursuant to “the penalty enforcement law,” N.J.S. 2A:58-1 et seq.

b. If the commissioner believes that any violation of this act has occurred or is threatened, the commissioner may give notice to the prepaid prescription service organization, its representatives, or any other persons who appear to be involved in the alleged violation. The commissioner may arrange a conference with the alleged violators or their authorized representatives to ascertain the facts relating to the alleged violation. In the event that it appears that a violation has occurred or is threatened, the commissioner may implement the necessary measures to correct or prevent the violation. Appeals under this section shall be conducted pursuant to the “Administrative Procedure Act,” P.L.1968, c.410 (C. 52:14B-1 et seq.).

L.1997,c.380,s.26.