24-44-103. Duties and powers of commission. (1) It is the duty of the commission:
(a) To coordinate intergovernmental dealings between tribal governments and this state;
(b) To investigate the needs of Indians of this state and to facilitate the provision of technical assistance in the preparation of plans for the alleviation of such needs;
(c) To cooperate with and secure the assistance of the local, state, and federal governments or any agencies thereof in formulating and coordinating programs regarding Indian affairs adopted or planned by the federal government so that the full benefit of such programs will accrue to the Indians of this state;
(d) To review all proposed or pending legislation affecting Indians in this state;
(e) To study the existing status of recognition of all Indian groups, tribes, and communities presently existing in this state; and
(f) To employ and fix the compensation of an executive director of the commission, who shall carry out the responsibilities of the commission.
(g) to (k) Repealed.
(2) The commission has the following powers:
(a) To petition the general assembly for funds to effectively administer the commission's affairs and to expend funds in compliance with state regulations;
(b) To accept and expend gifts, funds, grants, donations, bequests, and devises for use in furthering the purposes of the commission;
(c) To contract with public or private bodies to provide services and facilities for promoting the welfare of Indian peoples;
(d) To make legislative recommendations;
(e) To form committees as needed to respond to and address the needs of tribal governments and Indian peoples of this state; and
(f) To make and publish reports of findings and recommendations.
