Which type of authorization is not allowed for pre-referral investigative subpoenas?

• A. Time-limited authorizations
• B. Blanket authorizations
• C. Specific authorizations
• D. Written authorizations

Answer: (B)

The key idea here is that pre-referral investigative subpoenas must be narrowly tailored to the specific information needed and issued with clear boundaries. They shouldn’t sweep up broad, unrelated records or go on indefinitely. This protects privacy and keeps the investigation focused and accountable.

A blanket authorization is not allowed because it grants broad, indefinite access to a wide range of records across many people or entities, without tying the request to a particular investigation or timeframe. That level of overbreadth conflicts with the need for targeted, time-bound discovery in pre-referral matters.

In contrast, time-limited authorizations restrict how long the subpoena can pull records, which prevents open-ended fishing for information. Specific authorizations limit the scope to particular records or subjects relevant to the issue, aligning the request with the investigation’s actual needs. Written authorizations provide a formal record of the order and its boundaries, supporting transparency and due process.

Therefore, blanket authorizations are not allowed, while the other forms fit the required constraints.