82-4-422. Powers, duties, and functions. (1) The department has the following powers, duties, and functions to:
     (a) enter into contracts where it is found on the basis of the information set forth in the application and an evaluation of the operation by the department that the requirements of the part or rules will be observed and that the operation and the reclamation of the affected area can be carried out consistently with the purpose of the part;
     (b) conduct hearings and, for the purposes of conducting such hearings, administer oaths and affirmations, subpoena witnesses, compel attendance of witnesses, hear evidence, and require the production of any books, papers, correspondence, memoranda, agreements, documents, or other records relevant or material to the inquiry;
     (c) reclaim any affected land with respect to which a bond has been forfeited; and
     (d) make investigations or inspections which are considered necessary to insure compliance with any provision of this part.
     (2) The board shall adopt rules:
     (a) that pertain to opencut mining in order to accomplish the purposes of this part; and
     (b) establishing uniform procedures for filing of necessary records, for the issuance of contracts, and for any other matters of administration not specifically enumerated in this part.

     History: En. Sec. 6, Ch. 326, L. 1973; amd. Sec. 19, Ch. 39, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 50-1506; amd. Sec. 404, Ch. 418, L. 1995.