In cases of sanitation violations or unlicensed practice, the matter is most commonly referred to which authority?

• A. Local health department
• B. Public defender's office
• C. Court system
• D. TDLR

Answer: (D)

Enforcement of licensing and sanitation rules is handled by the state licensing authority responsible for regulating the profession. When there are sanitation violations or unlicensed practice, the most common path is to refer the matter to the licensing agency, which in this context is TDLR. This agency investigates complaints, enforces rules, and can impose penalties such as fines or license suspensions. Local health departments conduct inspections and address facility-level concerns, but the formal disciplinary action against a licensed professional or against unlicensed practice comes through the licensing authority. The court system handles legal actions once charges are filed, and the public defender’s office provides defense, not enforcement.