The comptroller of the State and the state archivist or other officer performing the duties of state archivist or custodian of the state archives are severally authorized and empowered to certify, as true and correct, copies or reproductions of any of the documents, papers, writings, or other government records, or excerpts therefrom in their custody. Fees for copying, certification, and other services shall be prescribed by the comptroller in direct relation to the cost of the services.

The above fees shall not be charged where the work involved is required by any department or branch of the federal, state, or county governments.