50-32-106. Board to encourage research. (1) The board shall encourage research on misuse and abuse of dangerous drugs.

(2) In connection with the research and in furtherance of the enforcement of this chapter, it may:

(a) establish methods to assess accurately the effects of dangerous drugs and identify and characterize those with potential for abuse;

(b) make studies and undertake programs of research to:

(i) develop new or improved approaches, techniques, systems, equipment, and devices to strengthen the enforcement of this chapter;

(ii) determine patterns of misuse and abuse of dangerous drugs and the social effects thereof; and

(iii) improve methods for preventing, predicting, understanding, and dealing with the misuse and abuse of dangerous drugs; and

(c) request the department to enter into contracts with public agencies, institutions of higher education, and private organizations or individuals for the purpose of conducting research, demonstrations, or special projects which bear directly on misuse and abuse of dangerous drugs.

(3) The board may authorize persons engaged in research on the use and effects of dangerous drugs to withhold the names and other identifying characteristics of individuals who are the subjects of the research. Persons who obtain this authorization are not compelled in any civil, criminal, administrative, legislative, or other proceeding to identify the individuals who are the subjects of research for which the authorization was obtained.

(4) The board may authorize the possession and distribution of dangerous drugs by persons engaged in research. Persons who obtain this authorization are exempt from state prosecution for possession and distribution of dangerous drugs to the extent of the authorization.