If the operator designates as confidential an exploration map, financial information, information concerning the grade or location of ore reserves or trade secret information, the director shall maintain the information as confidential and not subject to public records or disclosure laws; provided that if a request is made for public review of the information, the director shall notify the operator and provide a reasonable opportunity for substantiation of the claim that public disclosure of the information could harm the competitive position of the operator. If the claim of confidentiality is not substantiated to the satisfaction of the director, the information shall be released.