(1) In cases not otherwise provided for by law, depositions may be taken and read in either house or before a committee thereof, or before both houses in joint meeting, in all cases in which the taking and reading of depositions would be allowed in any cause pending before a court of law.
(2) When necessary, the presiding officer of the house in which they may be required or of a joint meeting may issue commissions to take such depositions.
(3) The proceedings in taking and returning depositions shall be the same as may be prescribed by law for taking depositions to be read in a court of law.