A. The department is the coordinating agency for intergovernmental and interagency programs concerning tribal governments and the state.

B. The department shall:

(1)     investigate, study, consider and act upon the entire subject of Indian conditions and relations within New Mexico, including problems of health, economy and education and the effect of local, state and federal legislative, executive and judicial actions. The department shall collaborate with other state departments or agencies that have an interest or stake in the subject being investigated, studied or considered. In performing its functions, the department shall provide an opportunity for the presentation and exchange of ideas in respect to Indian affairs of the state by all interested persons; and

(2)     assist in setting the policy, and act as the clearinghouse, for all state programs affecting the Indian people of New Mexico.

C. The department may:

(1)     hold hearings, conduct meetings, make investigations and confer with officials of local, state and federal agencies to secure cooperation between the local, state, federal and Indian tribal governments in the promotion of the welfare of the Indian people of New Mexico;

(2)     contract with tribal governments, public agencies or private persons to provide services and facilities for promoting the welfare of the Indian people of New Mexico; and

(3)     solicit and accept gifts, grants, donations, bequests and devises.