The Secretary of Interior is entrusted with the responsibility to-
Develop through research, new and more efficient methods of mining, preparing, and utilization of coal;
contract sponsors, cosponsors and promote the coordination of research with recognized interested groups, including coal trade associations, coal research associations, educational institutions, and agencies of States and political subdivisions of States;
establish technical advisory committees composed of recognized experts in various aspects of coal research to help in the examination, estimate and evaluation of research advancements and of all research proposals and contracts and also to assure the avoidance of duplication of research; and
cooperate with other departments, agencies, and independent establishments of the Federal Government and with State governments.
However, it is also a provision of law that no research can be carried out, contracted, sponsored, or authorized unless all information, products, patents and other developments resulting from such research is made available to the general public.
