(1) Information obtained by the commissioner, director, and office staff, including authorized representatives, which pertains to mine and metallurgical processes, ore bodies, or deposits or to the location, course, or character of underground workings and which is stamped confidential shall remain confidential, except in the way of official reports filed for record in accordance with the requirements of articles 20 to 25 of this title, and no information shall be furnished with the intent to aid in or prevent the sale or other conveyance of any mine or mining property.
(2) Any person who violates the requirements of this section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than one thousand dollars nor more than five thousand dollars. In addition, the person so convicted shall be removed from his position.