Section 24December 9, 1992, Sec./Art. 24

Visitorial Powers. – The Secretary of the Department or his representative shall have visitorial and examining authority over nongovernment entities with contracts for the exploration, development, or utilization of the natural resources for energy purposes in order to determine the share of the Government in the revenue or product thereof, and to ascertain all funds collectible and products due the Government, and that all such funds collectible and products due the Government have actually been collected or delivered.

During such examination, the nongovernment entity concerned shall produce all the reports, records, books of accounts, and other papers that may be required.

The refusal by any such nongovernment entity to allow an examination of its books of accounts and pertinent records or its concealment of any material information concerning its financial status shall be a breach of its contract with the Government and shall constitute a legal ground for the cancellation thereof.