19-9-9: Coal leases; authorization; competitive bids.

The commissioner of public lands may execute and issue leases for the exploration, development and production of coal from state trust lands. Leases shall be issued only to the highest bidder either by sealed bid or at public auction; provided, however, the commissioner may in his discretion withhold any tract from leasing and may reject all bids offered for any tract if he determines that withholding or rejection is in the best interest of the trust beneficiaries.