Section 12997 Of Article 12. Penalties And Injunctive Relief From California Food And Agricultural Code >> Division 7. >> Chapter 2. >> Article 12.

. In lieu of seeking prosecution of any violation of this division as a misdemeanor, and the penalty prescribed in Section 12996, the director may prosecute civilly pursuant to Sections 12998 and 12999, or may levy civil penalties pursuant to Section 12999.4 or the commissioner may levy civil penalties pursuant to Section 12999.5.