When must division staff investigate complaints regarding an applicant?

The investigation of complaints regarding an applicant is initiated when complaints are made after the certificate has expired. This is because, under Arizona law, the status of the certification is relevant to the assessment of the applicant’s eligibility to operate, and any complaints that arise after the expiration can indicate concerns about the applicant’s actions or conduct during the period without valid certification.

In this scenario, the investigating body has a responsibility to ensure that any actions taken by individuals who are supposed to be certified comply with legal standards and ethical practices, especially if those individuals are operating without a current certification. Addressing complaints that arise post-expiration is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the profession and protecting the public.

Other options do not meet the criteria for initiating an investigation under these circumstances. For instance, anonymous complaints may lack the verifiability needed for an investigation, while simply requesting an investigation does not automatically trigger the staff's investigative duty unless there is a legitimate basis for concern. Additionally, an applicant's prior violations would not warrant an investigation solely based on past infractions unless accompanied by new complaints or concerns after the certification has expired.