Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier issued an investigative subpoena to former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Dr. Anthony Fauci as part of a multistate probe into potential self-dealing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Uthmeier's office announced the action in a news release on Wednesday. The subpoena seeks documents related to awards, professional opportunities, financial incentives, grants, and COVID-19 guidance that affected Florida businesses and consumers. West Virginia Attorney General John McCuskey and Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill are participating in the investigation.

The subpoena demands production of records from January 3, 2020, through the present, with a deadline of August 31, 2026. It targets information on grants, book deals, and other benefits Fauci may have received in connection with pandemic recommendations.

"Government officials have a certain level of immunity in their official capacities, but if Fauci personally profited off of the 'guidance' he issued, that very well could have broken Florida law," Uthmeier said.

The move follows recent Senate hearings in which Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment more than 100 times when questioned about his handling of the pandemic. Florida's action focuses on possible violations of state consumer protection laws, including deceptive trade practices or fraud.

Fauci, who previously served as President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, received a pardon from Biden before leaving office. No criminal charges have been filed against him in this matter.

The investigation examines interactions with vaccine manufacturers, research funding tied to Florida institutions, and communications about vaccine safety and efficacy. Officials in the three states aim to determine whether any personal financial gains influenced public health directives.