(a)
In lieu of prosecution, the secretary or the commissioner may levy an administrative penalty, in an amount not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000) and in accordance with Section 27583.2 or 27583.4, as applicable, against a person who violates this chapter or any regulation implemented pursuant to this chapter. Commencing on the date the department posts notice of the adoption of the penalty schedule described in Section 27581.1, a penalty levied pursuant to this section shall be in accordance with that schedule.
(b)
“Person,” as used in this section, means anyone engaged in the business of producing, candling, grading, packing, or otherwise preparing shell eggs for market or who engages in the
operation of selling or marketing eggs that he or she has produced, purchased, or acquired from a producer, or which he or she is marketing on behalf of a producer, whether as owner, agent, employee, or otherwise pursuant to this chapter.