(a) The Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services of the Department of Human Services shall carry out educational programs designed to prevent and deter misuse and abuse of controlled substances. In connection with these programs the division may:

(1) Promote better recognition of the problems of misuse and abuse of controlled substances within the regulated industry and among interested groups and organizations;

(2) Assist the regulated industry and interested groups and organizations in contributing to the reduction of misuse and abuse of controlled substances;

(3) Consult with interested groups and organizations to aid them in solving administrative and organizational problems;

(4) Evaluate procedures, projects, techniques, and controls conducted or proposed as part of educational programs on misuse and abuse of controlled substances;

(5) Disseminate the results of research on misuse and abuse of controlled substances to promote a better public understanding of what problems exist and what can be done to combat them; and

(6) Assist in the education and training of state and local law enforcement officials in their efforts to control misuse and abuse of controlled substances.

(b) The division shall encourage research on misuse and abuse of controlled substances. In connection with the research, and in furtherance of the enforcement of this chapter, the division may:

(1) Establish methods to assess accurately the effects of controlled substances and identify and characterize those with potential for abuse;

(2) Make studies and undertake programs of research to:

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

(B) Determine patterns of misuse and abuse of controlled substances and the social effects of misuse and abuse of controlled substances; and

(C) Improve methods for preventing, predicting, understanding, and dealing with the misuse and abuse of controlled substances; and

(3) 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 that bear directly on misuse and abuse of controlled substances.

(c) The division may enter into contracts for educational and research activities without performance bonds.

(d)

(1) The Director of the Department of Health may authorize a person engaged in research on the use and effects of a controlled substance to withhold the names and other identifying characteristics of individuals who are the subjects of the research.

(2) A person who obtains this authorization shall not be 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.

(e)

(1) The director may authorize the possession and distribution of a controlled substance by a person engaged in research.

(2) A person who obtains this authorization is exempt from state prosecution for possession and distribution of a controlled substance to the extent of the authorization.