How long after a complaint is deemed without merit is the record retained?

In the context of California Chiropractic Law, when a complaint is determined to be without merit, the law mandates that the record be retained for a specific period of time to ensure transparency and accountability in case any further inquiries arise or for historical data purposes. The correct answer indicates that the record must be retained for five years after the complaint is deemed without merit. This duration allows for sufficient time to address any potential follow-up concerning the complaint, serving as a safeguard to both practitioners and the public, ensuring that even unfounded complaints do not simply vanish with no trace. After this retention period, the records may be eligible for disposal, aligning with both legal requirements and efficient administrative practices.