To further the development of mineral resources in the State of Oklahoma, particularly with regard to valuable minerals, including uranium, the Commissioners of the Land Office are hereby authorized to issue prospecting permits, under procedures, fees and rules as may be promulgated by the Commissioners, granting an exclusive right to prospect for any minerals owned by the state, under the jurisdiction and control of the Commissioners of the Land Office.
Okla. Stat. tit. 64, § 1090