20-25-108. Research programs -- powers of units. (1) The units of the system are authorized, singly or in cooperation, to engage in research and development programs with the prior approval of the regents.

(2) Such programs may be conducted by any department of a unit or any organization established to assist the unit. A unit or organization may:

(a) contract with private organizations, companies, firms, or individuals relative to research programs;

(b) conduct research programs with the penal, corrective, or custodial institutions of Montana and engage the voluntary participation of the inmates with the prior approval of the governing board of the institution;

(c) accept contributions, grants, or gifts from private organizations, companies, firms, individuals, governmental agencies or departments for research programs;

(d) make agreements or cooperative undertakings with private organizations, companies, firms, individuals, governmental agencies or departments for research programs;

(e) match the funds of private organizations, companies, firms, individuals, governmental agencies or departments with available funds for research programs;

(f) accumulate, invest, and expend the funds and proceeds from research programs;

(g) acquire real and personal property reasonably required for research programs;

(h) not divert funds, proceeds, or real and personal property from the research programs; and

(i) not charge or obligate the state of Montana or the general funds or a unit or agency.

(3) The legislature declares a public need for scientific research in the units of the system to promote the general welfare and to provide an adequate defense for the United States.