§ 32-23-7-4

(a) As used in this chapter, 'person in interest' means:(1) if used in reference to an oil and gas estate in land, the owner of a beneficial interest in the oil and gas estate in land; or(2) if used in reference to a coal bed methane estate in land, the owner of a beneficial interest in the coal bed methane estate in land;whether the interest is held for life, for a term of years, or in fee.(b) The term includes a lessee, licensee, or duly qualified agent of the owner.(c) The term does not include a mortgagee or security assignee of the owner if the mortgagee or security assignee does not have a right to the control or operation of the premises for:(1) if used in reference to an oil and gas estate in land, oil and gas; or(2) if used in reference to a coal bed methane estate in land, coal bed methane.[Pre-2002 Recodification Citation: 32-5-7-1(c).]As added by P.L.2-2002, SEC.8. Amended by P.L.140-2011, SEC.24.