(a) The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, the State Board of Pharmacy, the State Board of Medical Licensure, the State Board of Dental Examiners, the Mississippi Board of Nursing and the State Board of Optometry shall encourage research on misuse and abuse of controlled substances. In connection with the research, and in furtherance of the enforcement of this article they 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 article;

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

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

(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 which bear directly on misuse and abuse of controlled substances.

(b) The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the State Board of Education may enter into contracts for educational and research activities without performance bonds.

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