Professional Geologist Education and Enforcement Account

(1) There is created a restricted account within the General Fund known as the "Professional Geologist Education and Enforcement Account." (2) The restricted account shall consist of money from: (a) a surcharge fee established by the department in accordance with Section 63J-1-504, placed on initial, renewal, and reinstatement licensure fees under this chapter not to exceed 50% of the respective initial, renewal, or reinstatement licensure fee; (b) administrative penalties collected pursuant to this chapter; and (c) interest earned on money in the account. (3) Money in the account may be appropriated by the Legislature for the following purposes: (a) education and training of licensees under this chapter; (b) education and training of the public or other interested persons in matters concerning geology laws and practices; (c) enforcement of this chapter by: (i) investigating unprofessional or unlawful conduct; (ii) providing legal representation to the division when legal action is taken against a person engaging in unprofessional or unlawful conduct; and (iii) monitoring compliance of renewal requirements; and (d) education and training of board members.