Sec. 141.071. GENERAL AUTHORITY OF COMMISSIONER. To facilitate and encourage the rapid and orderly development of geothermal energy and associated resources, the commissioner may:

(1) provide for the orderly exploration of land that belongs to the permanent school fund, excluding wildlife refuges and recreational areas except as provided in Section 141.077 of this code; and

(2) issue permits and charge reasonable fees for the permits in accordance with rules promulgated under this chapter by the board.

Acts 1977, 65th Leg., p. 2642, ch. 871, art. I, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1977.