(a) In this section, “controlled substances” means those substances designated as controlled substances by Chapter 481.
(b) The department, in cooperation with other appropriate state agencies, shall carry out educational programs designed to prevent or deter misuse and abuse of controlled substances. In connection with those programs the department may:
(1) promote better recognition of the problems of misuse and abuse of controlled substances within the regulated industry and among interested groups and organizations;
(2) assist the regulated industry and interested groups and organizations in contributing to the reduction of misuse and abuse of controlled substances;
(3) consult with interested groups and organizations to aid those groups in solving administrative and organizational problems;
(4) evaluate procedures, projects, techniques, and controls conducted or proposed as part of educational programs on misuse and abuse of controlled substances;
(5) disseminate the results of research on misuse and abuse of controlled substances to promote a better public understanding of problems that exist and ways to combat those problems; and
(6) assist in educating and training state and local law enforcement officials in their efforts to control misuse and abuse of controlled substances.
(c) The department shall encourage research on misuse and abuse of controlled substances. In connection with research, and in furtherance of the enforcement of Chapter 481, the commissioner 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 Chapter 481;
(B) determine patterns and social effects of misuse and abuse of controlled substances; and
(C) improve methods for preventing, predicting, understanding, and dealing with the misuse and abuse of controlled substances; and
(3) contract with public agencies, institutions of higher education, and private organizations or individuals to conduct research, demonstrations, or special projects that directly pertain to the misuse and abuse of controlled substances.