(a)(1) Any appointed public official or employee who violates Code Section 45-10-22, 45-10-23, 45-10-24, or 45-10-26 shall be subject to:

(A) Removal from office or employment;

(B) A civil fine not to exceed $10,000.00; and

(C) Restitution to the state of any pecuniary benefit received as a result of such violation.

(2) Any elected public official who violates Code Section 45-10-22, 45-10-23, 45-10-24, or 45-10-26 shall be subject to:

(A) A civil fine not to exceed $10,000.00; and

(B) Restitution to the state of any pecuniary benefit received as a result of such violation.

(3) Any business which violates Code Section 45-10-22, 45-10-23, 45-10-24, or 45-10-26 shall be subject to:

(A) A civil fine not to exceed $10,000.00; and

(B) Restitution to the state of any pecuniary benefit received as a result of such violation.

(b) The penalties provided for in subsection (a) of this Code section may be imposed in any civil action brought for that purpose, and such actions shall be brought by the Attorney General.