A. The state mine inspector is assigned to the New Mexico institute of mining and technology.

B. The board of regents of the New Mexico institute of mining and technology and the mining safety board may recommend the names of qualified individuals to the governor for appointment as the state mine inspector.

C. In addition to those duties assigned to the state mine inspector by the board of regents of the New Mexico institute of mining and technology, by the mining safety board and by statute, the state mine inspector shall cooperate with the director of the mining and minerals division of the energy, minerals and natural resources department to assist the director in the performance of the director’s duties.