((a)) ** Definition of Federal law enforcement officer** In this section, the term “Federal law enforcement officer” includes a Federal law enforcement officer (as defined in ).section 115(c) of title 18

((b)) ** Authority to conduct investigations** Any Federal law enforcement officer shall have the authority to conduct an investigation relating to an alleged violation of this Act occurring within the jurisdiction of the United States.

((c)) ** Criminal proceedings**

((1)) ** Investigation**

((A)) ** In general** The Board may refer an alleged violation of to any Federal law enforcement officer for appropriate investigation.section 1159 of title 18

((B)) ** Referral not required** A Federal law enforcement officer may investigate an alleged violation of section 1159 of that title regardless of whether the Federal law enforcement officer receives a referral under subparagraph (A).

((2)) ** Findings** The findings of an investigation of an alleged violation of by any Federal department or agency under paragraph (1)(A) shall be submitted, as appropriate, to—

((A)) a Federal or State prosecuting authority; or

((B)) the Board.

((3)) ** Recommendations** On receiving the findings of an investigation under paragraph (2), the Board may—

((A)) recommend to the Attorney General that criminal proceedings be initiated under ; and

((B)) provide such support to the Attorney General relating to the criminal proceedings as the Attorney General determines to be appropriate.

((d)) ** Civil actions** In lieu of, or in addition to, any criminal proceeding under subsection (c), the Board may recommend that the Attorney General initiate a civil action under .section 305e of this title